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NARRATIVE 



OF THE 



AFFAIR OF QUEENSTOWN: 

IN THE WAR OF 1812. 



WITH A REVIEW OF THE STRICTURES ON THAT EVENT, 

IN A BOOK ENTITLED, "NOTICES 

OF THE WAR OF 1812." 



By SOLOMON VAN RENSSELAER. 



N E W-Y O R K : 

LEAVITT, LORD & CO., 180, BROADWAY. 

BOSTON : CROCKER & BREWSTEI 



1836. 




Entered, according to the Act of Congress, in the year 1836, 

BY LEAVITT, LORD & CO. 

In the Clerk's Office for the Southern District of New-York, 



I. LUDWIG, PRINTER, 
72, Veeey-strtet, N. V. 



PREFACE 



The apology for this publication, if any is needed, 
may be found in that law of a soldier's nature, which 
prompts him to repel a base attack on the reputation of 
the brave and the deserving, in the same spirit with 
which he would meet a a assault on a military post or 
position, which had been committed to his own special 
keeping. He flies irresistibly to the rescue of his com- 
rade, when in danger, and he is always ready to thrust 
himself in, to receive any blow which he sees aimed at 
his beloved commander. The law of resistance is all 
the stronger, when he finds himself worthy to be 
honoured with the personal notice of the common ene- 
my, and involved in a common peril with those with 
whom he stands in the relation of an intimate military 
connection. 

A book, entitled "Notices of the War of 1812," has 
lately been ushered before the public, which seems to 
have been specially devoted to the work of detraction and 
calumny. It would have received an appropriate dedi- 
cation, " To the spirit of all evil." It comes to us in 
the guise of history, but care has been taken to work 
up in its constitution, just truth and principle enough 
to disguise the poison infused into it, without, in the 
least degree, diluting its strength, or weakening its 
virulence. It is offered professedly as a medicine,* skil- 

* See the preface to the book, consisting of an extract from Mabby. 



IV PREFACE. 

full)'^ honeyed over with the appearance of sweet temper, 
sensibility, and candour, to make the pubHc believe it 
will do them good to take it ; while it is, in truth, a 
deadly compound into which the apothecary has emp- 
tied his most malignant vials, expressly with a view to 
the production of as much individual suffering and 
distress as possible. 

The author of this work is the too celebrated Gen. 
Jno. Armstrong, a name entitled to the undisputed 
distinction of being second to only one in infamous no- 
toriety, out of the host of our revolutionary worthies.* 
It happened that this man was called, in an evil hour, 
to assist in the administration of the government, during 
the arduous and eventful period of our second war with 
Great Britain. As the head of the war department, he 
had it in his power to perpetrate the most extensive 
mischief, not only by his want of capacity, but in the 
indulgence of an unhappy, restless, and malignant tem- 
per ; a power which he did not spare to use, at first to 
the oppression of all individuals whom he honoured 
with his enmity, and finally to the disgrace and degra- 
dation of his country. t That country was fated to 

* Arnold's treason was developed in the midst of ihe Avar; Arm- 
strong reserved his for the close of it. The success of the design, 
entertained by the author of the Newburgh Letters, would have beon 
much more fatal to liberty, than would have been the delivering of 
West Point into the hands of the enemy. 

t His interforenc;?, with the plans of General Wilkinson may 
serve as a commentary on this text. General W. wished to attack 
Kingston, and there rest for the winter in good quarters, to organise 
the different departments of the army, build boats, &.c. and carry 
Montreal early in the spiing. This delay could not operate against us; 
as the St. Lawrence opens between the two places before it does below, 
the attack could have been made before any reinforcements could ar- 
rive from Europe. If General W. had been sufferetl to t.ike his couise 
the British fleet at Kingston would have fallen into his hands, ajid tjic 



PREFACE. 



purchase its release from the hand of this functionary, 
at no less a sacrifice than the overthrow and sacking of 
the national capital, by a feeble and insulting foe. Here 
justice did overtake him ; and, finding that no artifice 
could suflSce to enable him to throw off the just respon- 
sibiUties of the position he had occupied, he passed into 



millions of dollars afterwards expended in ship building for the two 
lakes would been saved the country ; but the secretary was on the 
spot and manoeuvered to defeat his plan. It was said he had an eye 
on the presidency, and if Montreal could be taken that season, it would 
facilitate his object, for if successful he would have assumed all the 
credit; as it was, he managed to avoid the responsibility by throwing 
all the blame on poor Wilkinson, (see General W.'s trial before the 
court martial at Troy.— 1st. Vol of his Memoirs) 

* The affair at Bladensburgh occurred under General Armstrong's 
own immediate supervision as secretary at war. In this case, although 
an attack had been long apprehended, a much larger force, it is true, 
than absolutely required for the purpose of repelling it, was collected, 
but no organization or system of defence having been arranged, our 
army, composed of the regular cavalry, artillery, infantry, and a large 
body of militia, were disgracefully routed without a show of fight, 
except from the gallant Com. Barney, by comparatively a handful of 
British troops, who were exhausted by the fatigue of a long forced 
march. Near three weeks before the attack was made upon Washington, 
I received a letter from an officer of high rank in the army, who writes, 
" such is the want of preparation for defence at this place, that three 
thousand men can destroy it." Can it be supposed for a moment that if 
thisluthor, the dispenser then of honours and promotions in the army, 
had identified himself with oar troops, 'they would have retreated 
on the approach of the enemy ? No never ! yet he was among the first 
to set the cowardly example. If a more manly course had been pur- 
sued, though driven from the first stand, the road passing over a rolling 
country skirted by woods, afforded many positions, equally as strong 
and as admirably calculated for the most effective disposition of the dif- 
ferent kinds of troops employed, and they might have fallen back from 
one position to another with equal advantage and have harassed even 
a larger force of the enemy, so that they never could have reached 
Washington. But had every effort under this course failed, a few hun- 
dred men thrown into the Capitol, would have saved the City. The 



VI PREiFACEi 

His obscurity in his retreat, and bis long silence bad 
made his countrymen half believe that, perhaps, his 
unhappy temper was now softened, that he was melted 
under the just rebuke and neglect of the world, and that 
he was preparing, by an honest use of his pen, an 
instrument which he had shown himself capable of 
wielding skilfully, to offer to his country a proof of the 
sincerity of his repentance, in the composition of some 
work of high historical value. Rumours even, of his 
labours in this respect had reached the public ear. It 
was said, his thoughts were turned exclusively to the 
times of the Revolution and the earlier scenes of our 
history , and it was understood that nothing would be 
pubhshed, until he should be beyond the reach of any 
acknowledgments for the important service he should thus 
render. His injured but generous fellow-citizens had be- 
gun, already and by anticipation, to feel that forgiveness, 
which they only waited the proper occasion to accord 
and express. These "Notices," however, have effect- 
ually put this pleasant delusion to flight : it is now seen 
how differently his retirement has been occupied, — in 
brooding over thoughts of malice and revenge, — in 
nursing the energies of that dark spirit which can en • 
dure nothing bright or pure above him, or around him, — 
in watching the favourable moment for the discharge of 
his poisoned arrows, and when he could sate himself 
with victims and sacrifices. 

It will be seen that in this work two distinct purposes 

tix pounders used by ihe enemy, could h:ive made no impression upon 
the walls of this building, wLile a brisk fire from its windows and from 
the stone parapet sunound-ngits roof, would effectuf\lly have nrrcstod 
their progress. The same defences might have been made at the Pre- 
sident's house, flanked as it was by the state and treasury offices on 
the right, and by the war iind navy on ihe kfi. The navy-yard was 
equally susceptible of defence. 



PREFACE. VU 

are sought to be effected, though by a single blow. 
The one is to destroy individuals ; the other is to de- 
grade his country. Neither, alone, would satisfy his 
capacious and comprehensive malice. The shaft, aimed 
at persons, which did not pass quite through and reach 
the bosom of the Republic, would not accomplish the 
errand whereto it was sent, and, to do him justice, it 
must be confessed that his selections for this effect have 
been made with singular skill and felicity. For the 
most part, and always, unless by a mere error in judg- 
ment, his attacks have fallen on those, with whose 
names and reputation the honour and glory of the 
country were most nearly identified, while his commen- 
dations, sparingly applied, but designed to help forward 
his main purpose, have been reserved chiefly for those 
in whom the country has no interest, but that their 
names and exploits should be forgotten ; whose celebrity 
cannot be preserved, but at her expense. 

It is not the design of this publication to meet the 
whole mischief of Gen. Armstrong's book, or attempt 
the vindication of the many worthy men whom it as- 
sails. It is intended to answer a definite and limited 
purpose ; to disabuse the public in relation to a single 
event, one of the most important of the war of 1812, 
and to rescue one individual at least from the desperate 
assaults of this hoary calumniator. It is believed that 
the interests of history will be subserved by the relation 
which will be made. It is time that the celebrated af- 
fair of dueenstown should be understood, and that the 
high merits of the citizen general, who conducted the cam- 
paign of which this affair was the chief feature, should 
be placed beyond the reach and danger of detraction. 
The possession of all the materials necessary for the 



Via PREFACE. 

complete performance of the task, seemed to impose a 
corresponding and indispensable obligation. It is not, 
however, intended to be intimated that the author of this 
narrative and review is wholly uninfluenced by personal 
considerations and motives. He purposely embraces the 
opportunity to do an act of justice to himself, while en- 
gaged in viudicating both his country and his com- 
mander; and, in so doing, he is not conscious of even 
the danger of drawing on the indulgence of the public, 
beyond what it is accustomed to accord to the honest 
and characteristic frankness of a soldier. 



NARRATIVE, 6c c . 



A REQUISITION having been made by the general 
government for a body of New- York militia, it was the 
pleasure of Gov. Tompkins to appoint Gen. Stephen Van 
Rensselaer to take command of the forces which should 
be raised for the defence of the northern and western 
frontiers of this State, in answer to that requisition. 
That officer entered upon his command on the l3th 
of July, 1812, having done me the honour to request my 
services as his aid. I was anxious to serve my country 
in the contest in which she w^as engaged, and I did not 
hesitate, therefore, to take the situation thus offered me. 

On reaching the Niagara frontier towards the middle 
of August, the General found his troops scattered along 
the whole line of the river, and exposed to be cut up in 
detail. Having inspected his ground, his resolution was 
promptly taken to concentrate his forces at Lewiston. 
Orders to that effect were immediately given. His camp 
was formed, and the duties of discipline and instruction 
were entered upon without delay. From the moment of 
his assuming the command, his position was one of the 
utmost exposure and danger. He lay wnthin sight of a 
powerful enemy, separated from him only by a narrow 
river, for the crossing of which, that enemy possessed ev- 
ery facility. He had a Hne of thirty six miles to guard, 
and his whole force was considerably less than one thou- 



10 NARRATIVE. 

sand men,* many of them without shoes, and all of them 
clamorous for pay. Of ammunition, there were not ten 
rounds per man, and no lead. There was not one piece 
of heavy ordnance in th'e whole line, and there were no 
artillerists to man the few Hght pieces which we possess- 
ed. Add to this, that the troops could not take or keep 
the field, for want of tents and covering ; that the medi- 
cal department, if one could be said to exist at all, was 
utterly destitute of every thing necessary for the com- 
fort of the sick or the disabled ; and that there was a- 
mong the men that entire want of subordination, to say 
nothing of discipline, which always characterizes raw 
militia ; and some idea may be formed of the condition of 
our army. 

The condition of the forces on the opposite bank of 
the river, was in contrast with ours in every particular. 
There was a well appointed, and well found army, un- 
der the most exact discipline, and commanded by skilful 
and experienced officers. Every important post, from Fort 
Erie to Fort George,was in a defensible state, and the ene- 
my had possessed himself of a very commanding position 
on the heights of dueenstown, which he was rendering 
every day more secure and formidable. He had, moreo- 
ver, the mastery of the Lakes, and was at that moment 
industriously employed in using that advantage to in- 
crease his numbers, and add to his supplies at Niagara. 

In this state of things, the armistice which had been 
concluded between Gen. Dearborn and the Governor 
General of Canada, was announced to Gen. Van Rens- 
selaer, and it became necessary to settle with the com- 
mander of the British forces opposite to us, terms of an 
arrangement for the government of the armies on the 

♦ On the first of September, he had only 691 men fit for duty. 



NARRATIVE. 



11 



Niagara, during the continuance of the armistice. The 
performance of this duty was assigned to me, and a sug- 
gestion having been made by me to that eflect, I had 
the authority of General Van Rensselaer to attempt such 
an arrangement, as, besides securing the objects contem- 
plated by Gen. Dearborn, might enable us, pending the 
armistice, to use the waters of the Ontario, as a common 
and undisturbed highway for the purposes of transpor- 
tation. My interview with Gen. Sheaffe, on this mis- 
sion, was one full of interest. As was anticipated, the 
terms proposed by me were met not only with objec 
tions, but at first by an unequivocal refusal to accede 
to them. The following clause, proposed and insisted 
on, on the part of the British General, will serve to show 
how wdde of each other were our respective views and 
interests. " It is moreover to be distinctly understood, 
that there is not any thing in the foregoing articles, to be 
construed into granting facilities for the forwarding of 
troops, stores, (fee, which did not exist before the decla- 
ration of the armistice, farther than they are to pass un- 
molested as therein provided, in the mode and by the 
routes assigned to them prior to the cessation of hostili- 
ties." The result of a protracted discussion, however, 
was an agreement which confined the restrictions to the 
movements of troops, stores, (fee, to the country above 
Fort Erie, and left such movements elsewhere, entirely 
unshackled and free. 

The importance of this arrangement has never been 
sufficiently appreciated. The immediate and pressing 
necessity for it on our part, was, that without it, the ord- 
nance and supplies intended for our army, having been 
collected at Oswego, were not likely ever to reach us ; the 
roads were impassable, especially for heavy cannon, and 
the highway of the Lake was beset by a triumphant ene- 



12 NARRATIVE. 

iny. As soon as the negotiation was successfully com* 
pleted, an express was despatched to Col. Fen wick at 
Oswego, to move on with hie supplies with all possible 
expedition. But General Van Rensselaer was enabled 
to use this advantage for another purpose, of great im- 
portance to the service. No sooner was the way open, 
than an evpress was sent to Ogdensburgh with an order 
fjr the remjval of nine vessels from that place to Sackeit's 
Harbour. To this movement was Commodore Chaun- 
cey indebted for the ascendancy w^hich he for a time 
was enabled to maintain on the lake, and without which 
the subsequent descent at Little York could not have 
been attempted. 

Col. Fen wick had not arrived, when orders were re- 
ceived from Gen. Dearborn, to put an end to the armis- 
tice. He was, however, as it turned out, then approach- 
ing his place of destination, at which he shortly after- 
w^ards arrived. He was directed, out of abundant cau- 
tion, to land at the Four Mile Creek, instead of attempt- 
ing to reach Fort Niagara. As soon as this was effected, 
and in the same morning, having been charged with the 
delivery of the notice terminating the armistice, to the 
British Commandant, I crossed over from the Fort to 
discharge the duties of this mission, w hich 1 did in a per- 
sonal interview with Gen. Sheaffe. 

It will be seen by a reference to the documents collect- 
ed in the appendix to this Narrative, that from tlie first. 
Gen. Van Rensselaer acted on the certain knowledge, 
that it was e ^pected of him to make a descent upon Can- 
ada at the earliest possible period. He knew that nei- 
ther the government nor the country was prepared to be 
satisfied with defensive measures only. NothwMthstand- 
ing this, the first glance he had of his position, after 
he reached the frontier showed him at once, that 



NARRATIVE. 13 

nothing could be attempted, at least for a considerable 
period. Indeed his own condition was critical in the 
extreme, and even his ability to defend himself in case 
of attack, was more than doubtful. Gen. Dearborn, the 
commander of this entire district, had been ordered by 
the Secretary of War, in his instructions of the 1st of Au- 
gust, to make a diversion in favour of Gen. Hull, at Nia- 
gara. There was no preparation to do any thing effectual 
under this order. Before Gen. Van Rensselaer reached 
the frontier, Gen. Brock was on his way, with a compe- 
tent force withdrawn from his posts on the Niagara, to 
meet Gen. Hull, leaving behind him however, a force abun- 
dantly sufficient, with the reinforcements they were then 
receiving, for the protection of the posts he had left, against 
any attempt which could have been made on them on 
our part ; sufficient even to have made it quite possible to 
carry the war to the American side of the river, with 
every prospect of advantage and success. 

The first relief which Gen. Van Rensselaer experien- 
ced, was in the arrival of Col. Fen wick, with ordnance 
and stores, on the 4th day of September, as already relat- 
ed. Before this, however, and while as yet not a man 
had appeared to reinforce his numbers, the disgraceful 
fall of Detroit and surrender of Gen. Hull, had been an- 
nounced, and Gen. Brock had been actually seen re- 
turning to this frontier, and conducting along the heights 
of Q^ueenstown. an American army as prisoners of war. 
It was not much to be wondered at, that this event 
" spread great alarm among the inhabitants, and produc- 
ed strong symptoms of distrust among the troops." 

During the month which succeeded the announce- 
ment of this event, the condition and prospects of the ar- 
my were, ')n the whole, but little improved. There was, in 
nearly all this time, every reason to expect an attack. 

a 



14 NARRATIVE. 

Every thing indicated great activity on the British side, 
and preparation for some signal blow. In the condition of 
Fort Niagara, it was natural to suppose that that would 
be the first object. It is believed that an attack was only 
prevented by the shoio of defence which was set up. 
The Mess House was unroofed and mounted with can- 
non, and a Battery was planted on the bank of the riv- 
er above the Fort, while, in case of a hostile attempt, the 
safety of the troops was attempted to be provided for, by 
a new road cut through the woods at a distance from the 
river, in the rear. 

Early in September, Gen. Yan Rensselaer was advis- 
ed by Gen. Dearborn, that the enemy was preparing to 
make an effort to reduce this army to the mortifying sit- 
uation of Gen. Hull's, and that he must be ready 
" to make good a sure retreat." The abandonment of 
the Fort was also expressly recommended, and the fear 
expressed, that, if retained, it would prove " a trap for the 
garrison," for examinations had shown that it was utter- 
ly untenable and indefensible against a serious attack. 
The importance, however, of maintaining all his posi- 
tions, led the General to the determination to put forth 
every effort and energy, to this effect, and to adopt the 
unalterable resolution to dispute every inch of ground 
with his adversary, in case of an attempt to dislodge him. 
The following letters, the one addressed to Gen. Dear- 
born, and the other to Governor Tompkins, will show^ 
in some measure, the condition of things at their date, 
as well as the opinions and resolution of the Command- 
ing General. His whole force at this time, was about 
sixteen hundred men. 



NARRATIVE. 15 

Extract of a letter From Major Gen. Van Rensselaer to Major Gen. 
Dearborn. 

Head-Gluarters, Lewiston, 17ih September, 1812. 

The situation of my little army is becoming every day 
more and more interesting, and I believe existing circum- 
stances would fully warrant me in saying critical. As 
soon as our operations at and near Fort Niagara indicat- 
ed a disposition to maintain the garrison, the enemy be- 
came exceedingly active. New works were thrown up, 
and old ones modified to meet us at every point. Their 
works appear now to be all completed, and they are 
daily receiving very considerable reinforcements of men. 
Last evening, the Royal George arriv^ed at Fort GeorgCj 
with about two hundred artillerists. About one hun- 
dred boats, loaded with stores for the British army in Up- 
per Canada, have lately passed up the St. Lawrence. 
Two regiments of troops are also on their way up, and I 
am induced to believe that those lately arrived at Fort 
George, are detachments from those regiments. The in- 
formation which you had received on the subject of the 
enemy's reinforcements and destination, was undoubted- 
ly correct. Troops are also coming down from Fort Mai- 
den to Fort Erie. Indeed there can be no possible 
doubt, that the enemy are very actively engaged in 
concentrating their forces to act in this vicinity. When 
the scene of action will open, I know not ; it probably 
cannot be far distant. Such movements of the enemy 
have been observed for three or four days past, as have 
induced many to believe, that the hour of attack was at 
hand. On the 13th instant, boats were engaged in put- 
ting a considerable detachment of troops on board a ship, 
which, at evening, got under way from Fort George and 
stood out into lake Ontario. It was apprehended that 
those troops were, that night, to be landed on the south 



16 NARRATIVE, 

side of the lake, in the rear of our guards. The night 
before last, the eneni}^ moved some boats from the land- 
ing at dueenstovvn, down the river. This excited alarm, 
and late last night a rumour ran through the camp, that 
the garrison was actually summoned to surrender. I 
only mention these things to show you what apprehen- 
sions prevail. Should the enemy attack, I have every 
reason to believe we shall be very severely pressed ; but 
so serious will be the consequences of any retrograde 
movement, or a total abandonment of Fort Niagara, 
that, upon mature consideration of all circumstances, I 
have determined to hold, if possible, my present position, 
and dispute every inch of ground. My force bears no 
proportion to the duties required; besides, the disci- 
pline of the troops is not such as to warrant perfect reh- 
ance, and many of our arms are not fit for action. 
These are considerations which you, sir, and my fellow- 
citizens will do me the justice to bear in mind, whatever 
result may happen. For the application of the means 
entrusted to me, I hope I shall be able to justify myself 
to my country. M}^ greatest fear is, that the troops des- 
tined to reinforce me, will not join me in season. In 
every calculation heretofore made upon my reinforce- 
ments, both as to time and strength, I have been disap- 
pointed. Col. Bloom's regiment, which was reported to 
me before its arrival, for seven hundred, is but little more 
than four hundred. 

I am erecting a store-house and magazine upon the 
high grounds, in the rear of my camp ; but for want of 
teams, tools, and nails, the work proceeds but slowly ; 
we build with logs, and rive our shingles from bolts of oak. 
It is with extreme difficulty we can procure teams upon 
any emergency. The horses of the cavalry and flying 
artillery are badly supplied with hay, and as for grain 



NARRATIVE. 



17 



they are almost entirely destitute. I have completed the 
road through the woods, from my camp to the garrison. 

Major General Van Rensselaer to his Excellency Governor Tompkins. 

Head-Q,uarters, Lewiston, 17tli September, 1812. 
Sir,— 

I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of 
your packet by Major Noon, who arrived hi camp last 
evening. The duties of the day are too pressing to al- 
low me the leisure I could wish, to answer your letter 
particularly. I must, therefore, beg leave to refer your 
Excellency to my despatch of this date to Major Gener- 
al Dearborn. I cannot, however, but express the satis- 
faction I feel at the approbation, which my conduct thus 
far in the campaign has received. To perform my duty, 
arduous as it is, is comparatively easy, but to determine 
what my duty is, in a wide field for action, where every 
thing is unshaped and uncertain, is often a task of no 
small difficulty ; I am conscious to myself that I have 
studied it faithful!}^, and performed to the best" of my 
abiUty. My situation is growing every hour more inter- 
esting, perhaps critical. The particulars you will find 
in my letter to Gen. Dearborn ; but with my little force 
I shall certainly attempt to hold my position, with full 
reliance upon your Excellency's assurances, that every 
ellbrt will be made to support me. A retrograde move- 
ment of this army upon the hack of that disaster 
lohich has befallen the one at Detroit, icoidd stamp a 
stigma upon the jiational character udiich time could 
never icipe away. I shall therefore try to hold out 
against superior force and every disadvantage, until I 
shall be reinforced. I am happy to learn that the money 
to pay off the troops is at hand. The information cheers 
our camp. I announced it in orders this morning ; I 



18 NARRATIVE. 

hope they will soon realize their expectations, for in truths 
their wants are many. 

I have the honour, (fee. 

His Excellency Governor Tompkins. 

It will be observed, by reference to other official letters 
in the appendix, that as late as the 26th of September, 
the General was informed from Head-Gluarters at Green- 
bush, that a strange fatahty had pervaded the whole 
arrangements for reinforcing his post, and apprehensions 
were expressed that the reinforcements would still arrive 
too late to enable him to maintain his position. The 
same despatch, however, conveyed the expression of a 
confident hope, that he would not only be able to meet 
the enemy, but to carry the loar iiito Canada. It was 
added that " at all events we must calculate on possess- 
ing U. Canada before the winter sets in." In truth, the 
time was now at hand, when, if at all, the long contem- 
plated blow must be struck, and as the enemy had not 
brought the war into our camp, it was soon determined 
to carry it into his own. 

With the arrival of the reinforcements, which were 
now constantly comiug in, the confidence of the army 
increased to such a degree, that the desire for an oppor- 
tunity to wipe out the disgrace of Hull's surrender could 
no longer be restrained. The clamour for activ^e operations 
became general, and Gen. Van Rensselaer resolved to 
gratify his own inclinations and those of his army, by com- 
mencing offensive operations ; with this view he arranged 
a plan to be submitted, and then summoned his princi- 
pal officers to a council of war. For farther detail as to 
his situation and views, see his letter to Gen. Dearborn 
of Oct. 8th, published in Appendix, No. I. 

From the correspondence with Gen. Smyth, in rela- 



NARRATIVE. 19 

tion to the subject of his naming an early day when he^ 
in connection with other general officers, and command- 
ants of regiments, would meet Gen. Y. R. in council, it 
is plain that his second in command had no cordial dispo- 
sition to act in concert with him. And in farther confir- 
mation of the fact, is his letter reporting his arrival from 
Buffalo, dated 29th Sept. ; in this, although an entire 
stranger to the country, he goes out of the way to ob- 
trude his advice upon his commanding officer, touching 
movements and localities of which he knew nothing.* 
These will bear out the prevalent opinions of the day, 
as to his presumptuous conduct ; the cause of that, as 
well as of his subsequent evasive conduct, is merely a 
matter of conjecture. It might have proceeded from 
disappointment in not obtaining full command on this 
frontier, or it might have been because his fastidiousness 
could not be reconciled to the idea of being under the con- 
trol of a militia general. Be it as it may, he was highly 
censured by all who were aware of his conduct, and 
many, among w4iom I was one, were of opinion that 
coerciv^e measures should be resorted to, to bring him to 
a sense of his duty: and perhaps if Gen. V. R. is cen- 
surable for any sin of omission while on the frontier, it is 
for not pursuing this course. But as the season was 
rapidly drawing to a close, and as he was urged by his 
instructions to effect something decisive before he went 
into winter quarters, his situation was one of extreme 
delicacy. He did not wish to be drawn from the object 
he had in vievr, by a controversy with Gen. Smyth — par- 
•jicularly so, as he knew that the forces which by this 
time had collected in his own immediate vicinity, were 
amply sufficient for his purpose. 

* Appendix, No. II. 



20 NARRATIVE. 

The plan which Gen. V. R. intended to have sub- 
mitted to the council in question, and the objects he ex- 
pected to gain by it, if carried out, are indicated in the 
following extract of a letter from him to Gen. Dearborn. 
" That we immediately concentrate the regular force in 
the neighbourhood of Niagara, and the militia here 
make the best possible disposition, and at the same time 
the regulars shall pass from the Four Mile Creek, to a point 
in the rear of the works of Fort George, and take it by 
storm. 1 will pass up the river here and carry the heights 
of Q^ueenstown. Should we succeed, we should effect a 
great discomfiture of the enemy, hy breaking their 
line of co7ivmunicatio7i, driving their shipping from 
the mouth of this river ; leaving them no rallying 
point in this part of the country — appalling the 
ininds of the Canadians^ and opening a ivide and 
safe communication for our supplies. We shall 
save our oion land, wipe away a part of the score of 
our past disgrace, get excellent barracks and winter 
quarters, and at least be prepared for an early cam.- 
paign another year. As soon as the result of the 
council shall be known, I sliall advise you of it." 

His want of accommodations against the inclement 
weather became greater, in the same ratio as his strength 
increased, until the discontent in consequence, reduced hi.s 
camp to a state bordering on mutiny. The calls to be led 
to battle, became more and more urgent and imperious, 
and the general found himself at last obliged either to dis- 
miss the troops, or to gratify their wishes. Several days 
elapsed without having a time specified by General 
Smyth for holding the council, and the prospect of doing 
it being as remote as ever, Gen. Van Rensselaer could 
no longer withhold his orders for offensive measures. 
The different posts of the enemy having been previously 



NARRATIVE. 



2i 



examined by various officers of our army, while on offi- 
cial business there,* our knowledge of his localities, of 
course, was accurate, and having obtained satisfactory 
information as to the force stationed at his defences, par- 
ticularly at those about dueenstown, the general felt 
himself warranted in making an immediate attack on 
that place. Accordingly on the 10th October, 1812, 
thirteen boats, capable of transporting three hundred and 
forty men with their equipments, were brought down 
under cover of the night, upon wagons, from Gill Creek, 
two miles above the falls, and launched in the river at the 
only practicable spot at the time, at the present, Lewiston 
ferry. Lieut. Col. Fenwick's flying artillery were order- 
ed to be up in season from Fort Niagara. Gen. Smyth 
was also directed to send down so much of his command 
as could be spared from Buffalo, and the attack was to 
have been made at 3 o'clock, on the morning of the next 
day. " Experienced boatmen were procured toiake the 
boats from the landing below, to the place of embarka- 



* On my last visit there, the very day before the action, while return- 
ing to my boat, accompanied by Col. Mc Donald and some other offi- 
cers, attracted by the appearance of a body of Indians a short distance 
to our left, I expressed a desire to obtain a nearer view, as I might 
know some of them. This gallant and accomplished officer immediate- 
ly led the way. On our route we passed two beautiful brass howitzers 
of a small size, calculated to be carried on pack-horses, the wheels about 
as large as those of a wheel-barrow. I remarked, " these, at all events, 
are old acquaintances of mine." They had formerly belonged to 
Wayne's army, and had been left at Detroit, where, as Col. Mc D. stat- 
ed, they were taken by Gen. Brock and brought down, with a view of 
being sent to England, as a curiosity, I observed in a jocular manner 
that I felt partial to those pieces, and we must try to take them back. 
He replied in the same pleasant humour, that they must try to defend 
them. Little did he suspect that every thing was arranged to make 
that trial, or that the next day he and his chivalrous chief were doomed 
to fall and I to be grievously wounded. 



23 



NARRATIVE. 



tion. Lieut. Sims was considered the man of the great- 
est skill for this service : he went ahead,, and in tiie ex- 
treme darkness passed the intended place, far up the 
river, and then in a most extraordinary manner, fasten- 
ed his boat to the shore, and abandoned the detach- 
ment. In this front boat he had carried nearly all the 
oars, which were prepared for the boats. In this ago- 
nizing dilemma stood officers and men, whose ardour had 
not been cooled by exposure through the night to a 
most tremendous north-east storm, which continued 
unabated for twenty-eight hours, and deluged the whole 
camp. Col. Van Rensselaer was to have commanded 
the detachment. 

'' After this result, I had hoped that the patience of 
the troops would have continued until I could submit 
the plan suggested in my letter of the 8th, that I might 
act under, and in conformity to, the opinion which might 
be then expressed. But my hope was idle ; the pre- 
viously excited ardour seemed to have gained new heat 
from the late miscarriage. The ' brave were too morti- 
fied to stop short of their object, and the timid thought 
laurels half won by the attempt.' On the morning of 
the 12th, such was the pressure upon me from all quar- 
ters, that I became satisfied that my refusal to act, 
might involve me in suspicion, and the service in dis- 
grace."* 

Except in some minor details, the arrangements for 
another attempt were the same as on the last. The 
boats were brought back after daylight, and left on the 
shore opposite Queenstown, where they remained the 
two subsequent days in full sight, and within musket 

* See despatch from G. V. R. of Oct. 14th, to Gen. Dearborn, in 
Appendix No. II. 



NARRATIVE. 23 

shot of the enemy.* The appearance was regarded as 
a feint, and they became impressed with a belief, that 
they were intended to carry an armament down the 
river against Fort George. Our operations at and near 
Fort Niagara, before alluded to,t which they had lately 
seen effected opposite that post, confirmed the belief to 
such a degree, that their principal force was stationed 
there ; and when Gen. Brock was afterwards first in- 
formed of the firing at dueenstown, he declared that it 
could not possibly be an attack. '• It was nothing more 
than the war between sentinels."1: To all this, in con- 
nection with their faith in the impregnable nature of the 
place, we may ascribe the reason why they were so 
weakly garrisoned here ; and that they were so, was 
divulged to us through such sources as unequivocally to 
justify an attack, and it was decided that it should be 
made under my direction on the morning of the 13th. 

During the two intervening days, although yet suf- 
fering under the effects of a fever, by which I had been 
confined to my bed until near the moment of being 
called out to lead the first intended expedition, I was 
constantly employed in personally attending to complete 
the arrangements for battle, and in instructing the dif- 
ferent participators in the particular duties to be assign- 
ed them. 

Mr. Cook, a highly respectable citizen of Lewiston, 
(father of the Hon. Bates Cook, lately a member of 
congress, who, if I mistake not, with one or more bro- 

* The Niagara river being but about three hundred and fifty yards 
wide at this place, a British sentinel was killed at his post by a shot 
from our side. See Correspondence on this subject in Appendix, 
No.—. 

t See Correspondence with Col. Fenwick, Appendix, No. II. 

{ See Appendix, No. II. 



-24 NARRATIVE. 

thers volunteered his services for the occasion), was 
this time entrusted with the duty of procuring trust- 
worthy boatmen, at whatever expense ; and they with 
the boats were put under his direction. To Mr. Lovett 
was committed the management of the fire from the 
eighteen-gun battery on the heights of Lewiston. This 
'was an important duty. The balls from this battery 
were to pass over the heads of the assaulting party, in 
order to reach the enemy in the village of Glueenstown. 
The duty in the result was satisfactorily performed, 
though at the expense of Mr. L.'s hearing. He never 
recovered from the astounding effects of his own fire. 

Lt. Col. Christie, who had lately arrived with a rein- 
forcement of near four hundred regulars, having begged 
the honour of a command in the expedition,* was ac- 
cordingly ordered up to Lewiston with three hundred of 
his men. The remainder were left to guard the boats 
and stores which he had brought with him, to the 
mouth of Four-Mile Creek. Three hundred militia-men, 
who had been in camp several months, and were much 
superior to the newly recruited regulars in point of disci- 
pline, together with forty picked men from Capt. Leo- 
nard's old company of artillery from Fort Niagara, un- 
der Lieuts. Gansevoort and Rathbone, with all the 
equipments belonging to their proper line of service, 
composed the detachment under my own immediate 
command. An equal number from each of these two 
detachments, together witli the forty artillerists, were to 
proceed from the encampment, and effect the first de- 
scent upon the enemy's shore. Lieut. Col. Fenwick, 
and Major Mullany, were to follow with about five hun- 
dred and fifty regulars, and some pieces of flying artil- 

* See Col. Fenwick's correspondence, No. II. 



NARRATIVE. S5 

Icry, and then the militia in order, as fast as the boats 
could carry them. 

The arrangement, however, was partially deranged, 
when we reached the bank of the river. Here the 
troops were halted ; and while accompanied by my two 
acting aids, Lush and Gansevoort, I was inspecting the 
condition of the boats, which, by the way, appeared to 
be in perfect order, the regulars got possession of the 
narrow dug way leading down to the water's edge. In 
this emergency it became necessary either to counter- 
march part of this force, a movement which we appre- 
hended might arouse the attention of the enemy, or to 
fill the boats with regular troops in the first place, to the 
partial exclusion of the militia. The latter alternative 
was adopted, and Major Morrison was ordered to follow 
with the remainder of the detachment, in the return 
boats. 

When the troops had embarked, to the number of 
twenty-five in each boat, I first walked along the line 
to see that all were ready, and finding they were so, 
leaped into the one containing the picked artillerists, 
and gave the word to push off. The order was pi'ompt- 
ly obeyed. Counterbalancing, in the favouring eddies 
on either side, the lee-way made in crossing the main 
current, within ten minutes all the boats, excepting 
three, struck the enemy's shore without difficulty, at the 
identical spot aimed at. Having landed, the boats were 
immediately sent back. The troops were formed, and 
charged up the bank, where they met the enemy. A 
short, but severe engagement took place, with heavy loss 
on both sides ; but we were victorious, and the enemy 
gave way, and fled towards Queenstown, on our right. 
The position we occupied cut off their retreat to their 
main battery on the heights. Finding myself very 

c 



26 NARRATIVE. 

much crippled now, by a number of wounds, and with 
the loss of blood, unable to proceed any farther, I in- 
quired for Lieut. Col. Christie, but not hearing of him, I 
directed the troops to fall back a few steps, under cover 
of a bank, where they w^ere secure from the desultory 
shots still occasionally pointed at them. In this situation, 
a pause of some time occurred, while my staff were out 
in a vain search for my missing second in command. 
Had he been on the spot, the affair would have pro- 
ceeded without a moment's delay. But although the 
business yet to be done was all-important to the success 
of our enterprise, as long as there were any hopes of 
Lieut. Col. Christie's arrival, I was unwilling to entrust 
its execution to such very young men, the highest of 
whom in rank were only captains, not six months in ser- 
vice. But he was not to be found ; and as it was now 
broad daylight, any farther delay was highly hazard- 
ous ; and I therefore, in an agony of feeling which be- 
longed to the occasion, directed the troops to incline a 
httle to the left, and ascend the heights by the point of 
the rock, and storm the battery, which by this time had 
opened its fire upon our place of embarkation. Lieut. 
Gansevoort, being well acquainted with the ground, was 
ordered to lead the way, at the head of the picked artil- 
lerists, assisted by Lieut. Randolph. Lieut. Rathbone 
having fallen mortally wounded at my side ; other troops 
followed, Major Lush, my other acting aid, bringing up 
the rear, with orders to shoot down the first man who 
offered to give way. The noble* young men obeyed 
my directions, and, in due time, the report of a well- 
told volley, and the cheering shouts of victory, reached 
my ear, assuring me of their complete success. 

* For the names of these gallant young men, see Appendix, No. I. 



NARRATIVE. 27 

Having thus accomplished the work with two hun- 
dred and twenty-five men, for which six hundred and 
forty had been detailed, nothing farther was necessary 
for the full attainment of the objects of the enterprise, 
than to secure the advantages gained. Nothing was 
easier ; but an unfortunate occurrence of adverse cir- 
cumstances, turned the fortunes of the day against our 
arms. I could not participate, personally, in the subse- 
quent events ; and 1 must refer to Wilkinson's Memoirs, 
with Capt. Wool's report,* and to General Van Rensse- 
laer's report,t for a statement of them. I may add, as 
a conclusion of my own observations, however, that it 
had been anticipated that the enemy might open the fire 
of a piece of flying artillery, from the village of Queens- 
town, upon our place of embarkation, as soon as they 
were aroused to action by our attack. Mr. Lovett's at- 
tention had, therefore, been particularly directed to this 
contingency the day before ; and, in compliance with 
the instructions then received, as soon as there was 
light enough, he turned the long eighteens of the bat- 
tery on Levviston heights upon this spot, in such a mas- 
terly manner as to drive the enemy out before their bat- 
tery was carried. The ferry was unannoyed after this, 
except by the fire of one gun ; but the distance was too 
great, and the formation of the banks rendered this 
fire almost ineflfectual. I was afterwards told that none 
of our boats were injured by cannon shot. The artille- 
rists, who were purposely attached to the storming 
party, and provided with matches, were to have turned 
the fire of the battery on Glueenstown heights upon the 
village, and particularly upon the lower one-gun bat- 
tery above alluded to, which was about a mile below, 

* See Appendix I, f See Appendix II. 



28 NARRATIVE. 

and could not be reached from any other quarter. But 
some one of the number, in a fit of over-zealous patriot- 
ism, frustrated the design, by spiking the cannon as 
soon as captured. 

Priding myself as I do, on the habits acquired under 
the tuition of Generals Wayne, Wilkinson, and Posey, I 
am not conscious of ever having neglected the perform- 
ance of the most minute detail appertaining to my du- 
ties as a military man. Nor do I recollect of a neglect on 
this occasion. Selected to lead an expedition on which 
the result of a whole campaign depended, ray reputation 
was at stake, and my anxiety to give my country a 
glorious offset to the disaster of Hull, rendered me, if 
possible, doubly vigilant. Every preparation deemed 
essential was made under my own inspection, and every 
contingency was provided for a successful issue ; and if 
the result was unfortunate, it certainly was not on ac- 
count of any defect, either in the plan of the expedition, 
or in the arrangements made to carry it into execution. 
Had Lieut. Colonel Christie, for instance, effected his 
landing in conjunction with myself, no delay need have 
been occasioned at the important crisis when I became 
disabled. The batteries would have been secured be- 
fore the enemy were prepared to annoy us, and our pri- 
mary object, an unmolested passage to the reinforce- 
ments, would have been secured in season. To his fail- 
ure may mainly be attributed all our disasters. Yet the 
apology which he makes for it, in his report to Gen. 
Armstrong, (the loss of a rowlock and an unskilful 
pilot,) would, in a spirit of charity be deemed sufliicient, 
were it not known that other boats besides his own, were 
ordered by him to fail back at the same time,* His re- 

* Capt. Lawrence, in one of the three unsuccessful boats, has repeat- 
edly declared th?it he fell back by Chris^e's orders, 



NARRATlVfi. 29 

turn damped the hitherto irrepressible ardour of the mi- 
litia; Major Morrison, instead of leading his detach- 
ment across the river, suddenly found himself taken too 
unwell for the duty ; and though the dreaded fire on the 
ferry was now silenced by Mr. Lovett's battery, and the 
heights were captured, yet the panic had become so gene- 
ral, that but a small portion of our army could be pre- 
vailed on to cross. The remainder, to their eternal 
shame be it said, instead of lending their aid to sustain 
their gallant brethren in their victorious career, stood 
passively, and saw them cut up, and captured in the 
end, by a force amounting to about one-third of their 
united number. 

Having finished the brief personal narrative of the 
affair of dueenstown, which it had been my purpose to 
offer, the object of this work now requires, that I should 
proceed to an equally brief review of those extraordinary 
^' Remarks" applicable to this affair, which, with others 
of a similar kind to be found in Gen. Armstrong's book, 
form the distinguishing features of the work, make it 
characteristic, and mark it for his own. 

No. I. " The false and improbable report of a spy 
was made the ground^work of the expedition." The re- 
port of this spy was neither false nor improbable : it was 
true, and was corroborated and confirmed by other in- 
formation already had, in relation to the British force at 
dueenstown. That he was not mistaken about their 
numbers, and that the detachment which landed with 
me was more than enough to overpov/er them, was ma- 
nifest in the result. Their whole force at Queenstown 
proved to be comprised of two flank companies of the 
49th, a few miUtia, and Indians. After the foot-hold was 
obtained, if General Y. R.'s army had crossed the river 



30 NARRATIVE. 

its capacity for contending with the whole of the forc(5 
of the enemy, is a matter about which no doubt can be 
entertained. 

II. ^' Every mihtary enterprize should have some use- 
ful and important object." " Yet," says our historian, 
"according to the General's official report, his views 
were limited, on this occasion, to the expulsion of a small 
British detachment from Queenstown, and the occupa- 
tion of that village as winter quarters for his troops." — 
Now observe the fairness of this bold assertion. General 
Armstrong knew that the views of General Van Rens- 
selaer were not thus limited, and no such inference what- 
ever was authorized to be drawn from any official report 
of his. It was, indeed, casually mentioned in his letter 
to the Secretary of War, the day after the battle, that the 
possession of the village of Queenstown, if taken, would, 
as an incidental advantage, have afforded to the troops 
a shelter from the inclemency of the season. And this 
expression is seized on as indicating and comprehending 
the whole objects of the expedition, to the exclusion of a 
despatch, known to General Armstrong, in which these 
objects w^ere particularly detailed. The following single 
quotation should cover the historian with shame : — 
" Should we succeed, we shall effect a great discomfiture 
of the enemy, by breaking their line of communication, 
driving their shipping from the mouth of this river, 
leaving them no rallying point in this part of the coun- 
try, appalling the minds of the Canadians, and opening 
a wide and safe communication for our supplies ; we 
shall save our own land, wipe away part of the score of 
our past disgrace, get excellent barracks and w'inter 
quarters, and, at least, be prepared for an early campaign 
another year. 



NARRATIVE. 31 

III. '-^ The troops employed, or intended to be employ- 
ed on this service, were principally militia, and therefore 
not better chosen than the object itself. Why this was 
so, is a problem not yet satisfactorily explained. If it 
originated in an espiHt du corps, or belief of militia effi- 
ciency, there may be some colour of excuse for the error ; 
but if, as reported, the arrangement was made to gra- 
tify the a7nh it ion of an individual, the act was not 
merely injudicious but criminal." There was no choice 
in the matter. The intention was, to have employed 
all the disposable force : mihtia constituted the greatest 
proportion. The deduction, then, at the commencement 
of this note, may be ascribed to the wilful misrepresenta- 
tion of the writer, for he had the official returns before 
bin) ; but if it is only to be considered applicable to the 
first detachment, it is false : for, as already stated, that 
division contained forty regular artillerists and three hun- 
dred mihtia ; the other, three hundred regulars. As to the 
selection of a leader. Gen. V. R. made it, after due reflec- 
tion and consultation, and it behoves me not to discuss its 
propriety : but it may not be amiss to state, that it seems to 
have met the approval even of the author of the report from 
which the historian draws so largely for his embellish- 
ments. He, it appears from this document, though not 
disposed to waive his rank, yet, in fact, was not disin- 
clined, and did consent to serve under an officer of esta- 
blished reputation. The truth is, there was no other 
officer on the ground who had seen service ; and a 
ghmpse at the incidents of an earlier period of my hfe, 
might perhaps be sufficient to show, that General V. R. 
believed he jiad some good reasons for making the selec- 
tion he did.* 

* When about eighteen years of age I joined the army, under the 
command of General Wayne, as a Cornet of cavalry, and before twen- 



312 NARRATIVE. 

IV. " If it be necessary to pass an army over a large i 
and rapid river, demonstrations should never be omitted, , 

ty was promoted to the command of a troop. In the action of the 20th 
August, 1794, 1 received a wound through my lungs, which was at first 
considered, by the surgeons, to be mortal, but which my youth and 
strong constitution surmounted. How I acquitted myself, the de- 
spatches from General Wayne to the war-department bear ample tes- 
timony. Suffering yet from the effects of my wound, and there being 
no prospect of active service, in March, 1797, I went to Philadelphia, 
with the intention of resigning my commission. At the war-office I 
found General Wilkinson. Both himself and Mr. Secretary M'Henry 
expressed great satisfaction at seeing me. The latter observed, that 
he intended ihat day to have written to me : and when informed that 
I was there with a view to resign, and engage in some other business, 
he was kind enough to interpose a strenuous opposition, in which he 
was strongly seconded by the Secretary, on the ground that my ser- 
vices were required for a delicate, perliaps dangerous duty. I was at 
once informed, that if I would undertake the enterprise offered me, I 
should have a blank furlough in my pocket, with the power to fill it 
up at my own discretion. Such a mark of confidence induced me to 
consent. I returned, made my arrangements, and, without delay, fol- 
lowed General Wilkinson to Fort Washington, (now Cincinnati.) 
Here I found the men of my old troop dismounted. I had not seen the 
fine fellows since the great battle in which they bore a distinguished 
part. The meeting was as unexpected as gratifying. I immediately 
passed over to Lexington, Ky., to facilitate and superintend the purchase 
of horses to mount my men, and in a few days reported myself and 
troop ready for duty : when, in compliance with my orders, (see App. 
order 14,) then received, I proceeded to Knoxville, and remained there 
until the object for which I had been sent was accomplished. When the 
conduct of France towards this country rendered it necessary for the 
general government to augment the army, and when Washington was 
again called upon to place himself at it^ head, he sent for me ; and in 
the presence of Generals Hamilton and Pinckney, questioned me about 
the state of my wound, and soon after I was appointed a Major of ca- 
valry. By the law subsequently enacted for reducing this army, two 
troops of cavalry were retained without a field oflicer. I, of course, was 
among the disbanded, but not until after every effort in my favour had 
been made by Governor Jay, the gallant but ill-used Gen. Schuyler, 
General Hamilton, and others. — (See Letters, Appendix, 5.) Soon 
after, I received the appointment of Adjutant General of the militia of 



NARRATIVE. 33 

provided the extent of your own force will justify de- 
taching." 

Oil the occasion of the first intended attack, on the 
11th October, an exception to this rule occurred. The 
object was, to surprise the enemy in the night ; and it 
Avould have succeeded, beyond all question, if the de- 
scent had been effected. For the ISth, sufficient demon- 
strations were made for the purposes required in the rule. 
The appearance of our boats at the ferry two full days 
before the action, was regarded as a feint, intended to 
mask some other movement, and so it was supposed it 
would be regarded ; and as already stated, in connection 
with this, the extension of our works at Fort Niagara, 
together with the presence of forty additional boats near 
it, at the mouth of Four-mile Creek, induced the British 
commander to believe, as it was designed he should, that 
Fort George was our object ; and there, as the result 
proved, he was fully prepared, but not at Q,ueenstown. 
The departure of General Smyth and Colonel Scott from 
their respective posts, at Black Rock and the Falls, was 
not observed by the enemy until after we had secured a 
foot-hold on his shore, as they marched in the night. 
If the remainder of the troops had crossed over, and sus- 
tained us then, the concentrated forces of all the British 
garrisons could have made no impression upon us. 

this state, under that great and good man, Gov. Jay. This appoint- 
ment I held during the respective administrations of his successors Go- 
vernors George Clinton and Lewis; for nine years during Governor 
Tompkins's administration, and, though subsequent to the events on 
which the mention of these facts is intended to bear, for nearly the 
whole period of Governor Dewitt Ch'nton's. Now, knowing- all this, as 
he did, and that I had obtained these marks of consideration and of 
confidence from such high sources, the question is, Was General V. R. 
justifiable in selecting me to take the lead in the expedition? And if so, 
although I do not deny that my ambition was highly gratified by th,% 
selection, wherein consisted its criminality ? 



34 



NARRATIVE. 



V. " Every officer charged with the direction of a mi- 
litary enterprise, should, before commencing it, assure 
himself, that the means necessary for that purpose are 
provided and ready for use." 

Having been confined to my bed previous to the first 
attempt, General Wadsworth, a brave and meritorious 
officer, was requested to superintend the movements of . 
the boats. We had forty lying in Gill Creek, the whole 
number of which could not be brought down without 
alarming the enemy with apprehensions of an attack at 
the real point. However, he procured as many as were 
required : and, after the failure of the first attempt, (the 
causes of which have heretofore been stated,) other effi- 
cient means were taken to regulate the employment of 
them ; and notwithstanding the allegations of certain 
individuals, who sought an excuse for their own mis- 
conduct, it is due to Mr. Cook to say here, that his de- 
partment was well regulated ; and as long as the troops 
showed a disposition to cross, it was well conducted. If 
there was any irregularity afterward, the fault was not 
so much in his boatmen as in his passengers. 

VI. " An army crossing a river in small detachments, 
and consecutively, exposes itself to be beaten in detail by 
an enemy much inferior to itself; another important 
maxim, which on this occasion was forgotten or disre- 
garded." The enemy were unprepared for an attack, as 
already fully shewn ; our first detachment proved itself 
able to master their garrison ; and after the mastery 
was gained, our boats were abundantly sufficient to have 
carried over our whole army, (with the exception of such 
parts as were necessary for the defence of certain posts,) 
before ten o'clock in the morning. Now the British forcCj 



NARRATIVE. 35 

under General Sheaffe, did not arrive on the spot until 
four 0^ clock in the afternoon. 

Ylt. " The place selected for crossing the river was 
ill-judged." That this stream is " a sheet of eddies," as 
quoted by Gen. A., is true, no doubt ; and this is the very- 
fact which accounts for the pains taken to secure the 
services of experienced boatmen : yet any person may 
realize the ease with which a passage, under the guid- 
ance of skilful pilots, may be effected by crossing over the 
spot in the ferry-boat of the present da}^ And what if it 
was commanded by the enemy's batteries? The bearing 
of his guns had been examined beforehand, and the whole 
case provided for. Beginning the embarkation under 
tlie cover of the night, we had a chance of escaping ob- 
servation : and even if we had been observed, we were 
soon out of the range of tlieir batteries ; and at the place 
selected for our landing, nothing but small arms could 
be used against us. 

YIIL '• The omission to ascertain, previously to the 
adoption of the project, the political sentiments of the 
militia on the question of invasion, and that of not 
promptly recalUng the advanced corps after having as- 
certained that point, were errors of great magnitude. — 
Both measures w^ere entirely within the General's power, 
and had they been adopted, would either have prevented 
the enterprise, or have terminated it at a moment when, 
by the death of Brock and the flight of the enemy, we 
should have had the credit of a victory, instead of the 
discredit of a defeat. And lastly, nothing could be more 
ill-judged than the attempt made to withdraw the corps, 
after it had lost its ascendancy in the field, and when the 



36 NARRATIVE* 

means necessary for the passing the river, or of covering 
the retreat, no longer existed." 

In his despatch of Oct. 14, General V. R. writes— 
" The partial success of Lieut. Elliot at Black Rock, (of 
which I have, however, received no official information,) 
began to excite in the troops a strong disposition to act. 
Iliis was expressed to me through various channels, in 
the shape of an alternative^ that they must have orders 
to act, or, at all hazards, they would go home." The 
alternative which Gen. V. R. thought his own reputa- 
tion and the good of the service required him to adopt, 
under all the circumstances of the case, was to lake the 
troops at their word, and lead them into action. The 
attempt on the llth was the consequence. It resulted 
in a failure. So far from being damped by this, the Gene- 
ral adds, " The previously excited ardour seems to have 
gained new heat from the late miscarriage : the brave 
were mortified to stop short of their object, and the timid 
thought laurels half won by the attempt. On the morn- 
ing of the l:ith, such was the pressure upon me from all 
quarters, that I became satisfied that my refusal to act 
might involve uie in suspicion, and the service in dis- 
grace." Now it was known to every officer on the 
ground, that such a state of tilings existed ; and as the 
troops were aware that they could not act against the 
enemy without invading them, in the name of common 
sense, what stronger evidence of the political sentiments 
on the question of invasion coukl be required / 

At the period of Gen. Brock's fall, and the flight of 
the enemy, the troops were still crossing, we had a pros- 
pect of a victorious termination of the enterprize, and no ^ 
one then supposed the militia would change their minds; ' 
of course, the idea of a retreat could not be entertained. 



NAREATIVE. 37 

Gen. V. R. crossed over about this time, leaving direc- 
tions for the militia to follow : but learning subsequently 
that he was not obeyed, he returned, with a view of as- 
certaining the cause, and to expedite their movements. 
It was then, for the first time, he found them recreant 
to the promises which their late clamour for action im- 
plied. After trying all the means that human inge- 
nuity could devise, to arouse them to a sense of their 
duty, he was obliged to give up the effort in despair. — 
He then despatched a note to General Wadsworth, in- 
forming him of the predicament, and leaving the course 
to be pursued much to his own judgment ; assured him, 
if he thought best to retreat, every thing in his power 
would be done to render the measure as easy and as safe 
as possible. 

The note, however, reached its destination too late. 
Reinforcements of the enemy, under Gen. Sheafife, were 
by this time near at hand, and very soon our httle band 
of heroes were attacked, and after another obstinate fight, 
overpowered. The General closes his narrative of the 
events of this eventful day, thus : — ''I can only add, 
that the victor^/ was really won, but lost for want of a 
small reinforcement ; one-third j)art of the idle 7iien 
would have saved all?^ If this presumption is a just 
one, and it never has been doubted, it furnishes a strik- 
ing commentary on the masterly judgment displayed 
in arranging the plan of operations ; for with the facts 
before us, all will admit that the General liad indications 
enough, to justify him in his dependence upon the sup- 
port of these " idle men.'''' 

It has been shown, that we were successful in every 
important measure, up to the time of Gen. Sheafife's ar- 
rival. Now, as we had possession of the main road lead- 
ing from Glueenstown heights through the village to Fort 

D 



38 NARRATIVE. 

George, over a cleared and flsit country, he, (Gen. Sheaflfe,) 
was obliged to file off when he came near Queenstown, 
to his right, to the small village of St Davids, which 
was four and a half miles west in the rear of dueenstown. 
From thence, ascending the heights, he had four and a half 
miles more to march east, in order to give battle to our 
troops, and recover his battery. Our force would haveout- 
numbered his, three toone, and if the militia had donetheir 
duty, his defeat would have been certain. In that case, 
his retreat would have been cut off ; the distance for him 
being fifteen miles, for us only six by the direct road, to Fort 
George.* This post would have fallen without striking 
a blow, for there were not more than twenty men left in it, 
under Major Evans, to keep up the cannonade between 
it and Fort Niagara, and all the objects aimed at, would 
have been acquired.! 

General V. R. has always been ready to meet an in- 
quiry into his official conduct throughout this campaign, 
and has boldly sought it, but none has ever been accord- 
ed him. Let then the appeal now be made to any 
practical military man, with the circumstances all before 
him, as to the correctness of his conduct generally in 
this affair, and particularly on the occasion when he 
suggests a retreat to a corps, which he rightly supposed 
would otherwise be crushed. "Nothing could be more 
ill-judged than the attempt, " in the opinion of General 
Armstrong ; but the weight which should be attached 
to any opinion of his, in which the conduct of either 
General V. R. or myself is implicated, will stand a bet- 
ter chance of being justly estimated, when these notes 
shall have been read. The estimable private as well 



* See Map. 

t Our Av inter quarters would not have been confined to dueenstown, 
but to that place and to Newark, if expedient. ^ 



^ NARRATIVE, 39 

as public character of Major General Van Rensselaer, is 
known and established throughout the United States. 
Devoting as he does the remnant of a useful and hon- 
ourable life, to promote objects of Christian benevolence 
and charity, it might have been expected that even 
General Armstrong's malevolence would have found no 
gratification in intruding upon his retirement and 
interrupting him, in his benevolent pursuits. 

After the battle of dueenstown, General Dearborn, 
professing to be satisfied and pleased with my conduct, 
told my friends Generals Lewis and Y. R. at Greenbush, 
that a separate corps would be organized for me, of which 
they informed me by letter while confined with my 
Wounds at Buffalo ; * but owing to the public defence, 
which as a man of honour, I found myself obliged to set 
up against the political attacks on the conduct and 
character of General V. R., who then was a candidate 
for the governorship against Governor Tompkins, I be- 
came obnoxious to the dominant party of the day^ and 
the intention was never carried into effect. 

Dr. Eustis, before he resigned as secretary at war, 
entered my name upon the list for the appointment of 
Brigadier General. He afterward told me, when in 
Congress together, that he was astonished that his suc- 
cessor General Armstrong had not appointed me. 

The present venerable Mayor of Baltimore, General 
Samuel Smith and the Hon. D. R. Williams, chairman 
of Committee on Military Affairs in Congress, called to- 
gether of their own accord, upon the Secretary of War, 
to urge my appointment in the army. 

* I was taken to this place by a company of Major Mosely's Mili- 
tia Riflemen— they volunteered to carry me on their shoulders all the 
wfiy to Albany, 



40' NARRATIVE. 

When the much persecuted and unfortunate General 
Wilkinson was ordered by General Armstrong from 
New Orleans to take command of the Northern army, 
he too urged my appointment, but was refused. On 
his arrival at this place, however, he sent for me and 
wished me to accompany him to the frontiers. 1 replied 
that I would willingly do so, if 1 thought he had the least 
chance to effect any thing of consequence ; but knowing 
that the deficiency of almost every necessary article, and 
the w^ant of a proper organization in any department of 
the army, w ould prevent his descent upon Montreal that 
season, 1 declined.* 

Gen. Harrison, with whom I had served in General 
Wayne's army, also solicited my appointment, as his 
second in command in the northwestern army. 

It will be recollected that I never resigned my com- 
mission in the regular service, but lost it when the army 
was curtailed ; my claim to promotion, therefore, was 
valid still, whenever any augmentation took place. 
Besides this, the validity of such claims was admitted 
in the case of other officers of Wayne's army, and they 
were promoted accordingly. Harrison, who was a 
lieutenant w^hen I commanded a troop, Avas commis- 
sioned a major-general; Covington, a subaltern in our 
corps, a brigadier general ; Ball, my cornet, a lieutenant 
colonel, &c. (fee. Yet, the above applications in my 
behalf — and they were certainly entitled to some con- 
sideration, on the score of the character of the ap- 
plicants — were all superciliously denied, on the ground 

* When informed by me of the state of his command, he could hard- 
ly credit, it for Armstrong, in reply to written queries put to him on the 
subject, had stated every thing to be in complete order, (See "W's 
memoirs) ; afier he had visited his line of posts, however, he wrote me 
that things were not only as bad as I had represented, but much WQrs(^ 



NARRATIVE. 41 

as alleged to Wilkinson and others — that I was too 
impopular to raise a corps. Where is the evidence 
of this fact? Was Gov. Tompkins, with whom, 
unfortunately, I had been at political variance, aware 
of it when I accepted his invitation, as a member of 
his own family, to assist him in defending the city of 
New- York from an expected invasion? Was it in- 
dicated in the resolution unanimously passed by the 
council of appointment, to confirm my brevet as Major 
General, in the militia of this state,* or was my election 
to congress by my neighbours, without opposition in one 
instance, and by a triumphant majority in another, any 
evidence of it ? No, it only existed in the brain of a 
calumniator. Gen. Armstrong was at that time govern- 
ed by the basest of feelings and motives ; and in the 
antipathies engendered in times long past, and by cir- 
cumstances which should be forgotten, is. to be found the 
whole secret of his present peculiar hostiUty, both to 
Gen. V. R. and myself. 

COPY 

* The commander in chief having raised by brevet Solomon Van 
Rensselaer to the rank of major-general in the mili:ia of this state, on 
account of his distinguished gallantry and public spirit in the military 
service of his country, and especially during the late war on the Nia- 
gara frontier, therefore resolved, that the said Brevet be confirmed, and 
that a commission be issued to him as major-general accordingly, in 
the militia of this State. 

DEWITT CLIJNTON, Governor. 
(Signed,) 

Stephen Barnum, ") 

William Ross, f Mpmh^r^ 

George Rosecrantz, ( *^«"»6««^ 
Stephen Bates. ) 



f? 



APPENDIX 



The annexed Letters and General Orders Avill show 
the difficulties General Van Rensselaer had to contend 
with ; and the measures he pursued to meet them ; his 
devotion to the interests of the service, the comfort of the 
troopsj and the honour of their arms. The Letters 
which passed after the battle between him and General 
Sheaffe, rival chiefs as they were, in fame and in cour- 
tesy, will be read with interest and profit. 



APPENDIX,No,I. 



Extract from Wilkinson's Memoirs, 1st vol., from page 564 to 581. 
Major Gen. Dearborn had been placed in the command 
of the Northern frontier early in 1812, with views to the in- 
vasion of Canada, but if I am rightly informed, without being 
furnished with any plan, general or particular, or any indica- 
tion of the course which might probably be pursued for the 
direction of his operations. Lake Champlain presented the 
great military highway to the centre of the enemy's province, 
and the American settlements at the foot of that lake were 
remote and exposed ; the general therefore judiciously de- 
termined to take his first position with the regular recruits in 
that quarter; but in the progress of the campaign, the mis- 
fortune at Detroit put the western frontier of the State of 
New York in danger, and in defect of regular troops, the 
general called on the Governor of the State for a body of 
militia. This gentleman who distinguished himself as a 
supporter of the war did not hesitate to comply with the 
requisition and Major General Stephen Van Rensselaer was 
selected for the command. The motives for this selection 
were equivocal, but in relation to the public service it was 
well judged, because of the amiable disposition, the elevated 
patriotism, the sound discretion, the solid judgment, inflexible 
honour and firm resolution of this officer. But Gen. Van 
Rensselaer was opposed in politics to Governor Tompkins, 
and had differed also with him in opinion as to the expediency 
of the war, and at the same time they were rival candidates 
for the government of the State. In the spirit of the times, 
when almost every public measure is regulated by interested 
intrigue ; the suggestion may not be uncharitable, that thi^ 



^ APPENDIX. 

command was offered to Gen. Van Rensselaer, in the expec- 
tation that he would refuse it, and that his refusal would 
affect his popularity. But this virtuous citizen, although in 
possession of the first patrimonial estate in America, and in 
the enjoyment of every blessing which can sweeten domes- 
tic life, notwithstanding his opposition to the policy of the 
war, was too sensible of the obligation which he owed to his 
country and its government, to pause a moment for the course 
he should pursue. He received the orders of Gen. Dear- 
born, and commenced his march for the frontier, accompa- 
nied by Col. Solomon Van Rensselaer, adjutant general of 
the State of New York, of whom I must be permitted to say 
a few words. This high-minded citizen soldier, and honour- 
able man, made his noviciate in arms under my orders as a 
Cornet of dragoons, more than twenty years before, and at 
that tender age was distinguished for his coolness and intre- 
pidity in action. His father had served as a lieutenant colo- 
nel in the revolutionary war, and fought and bled for his 
country in the affair near Fort Ann, against the 9th British regi- 
ment of Infantry, in 1777 ; he had transfused his spirit and pa- 
triotism into his son, who in my presence during the campaign 
of 1794, fought with sang froid and bled with complacency. 
Rising by regular promotion to a troop, he was particularly 
noticed by General Washington, and raised to the command 
of a squadron; but he was among the disbanded at the 
reduction of 1800; and after that period, although anxious 
for a military appointment to which he would have done hon- 
our, his politics, as a good federalist, opposed an insuperable 
bar to his applications. 

On reaching Utica, General Van Rensselaer was called 
to Sacketts Harbour, by a rumour of the movements of the 
enemy in that quarter, and from thence after a short halt he 
proceeded to Ogdensburgh, where Colonel Van Rensselaer 
projected a handsome enterprize, which failed through the 
want of a iew regular troops ; an armed vessel of the enemy, 
lay along side a wharf adjoining the British magazines at 



APPENDIX. O 

Prescott, on the opposite shore. Colonel Van Rensselaer 
proposed with one hundred and twenty men, to ascend the 
St. Lawrence four or five miles, after night, cross the river, 
fall down under the Canada shore, take possession of the 
buildings and carry the vessel, boarding her by land and 
water at the same time. Volunteers from the mihtia, turned 
for the enterprize at evening roll-call, but at midnight^ they 
had changed their minds, and as they believed there existed 
no competent authority to order them beyond the limits of 
the state, this feasible project was abandoned. 

From Ogdensburgh, General Van Rensselaer returned to 
the southward and established his Head Quarters at Lewiston, 
on the Strait of Niagara, whilst General Smyth, of the Con- 
tinental service, was ordered to take post in the vicinity of 
Black Rock at the head of the Strait. This association was 
unfortunate, as the latter gentleman's high military preten- 
sions, could not be reconciled to the command of a militia 
general, on his first tour of duty, however respectable as a 
citizen; and it is presumed this temper produced a spirit of 
insubordination, repulsive to the harmony and concert which 
is essential to cordial co-operation, and that the public ser- 
vice, was sacrificed to personal sensibility. 

The campaign glided away under the tardy levy of regu- 
ular troops, and the dilatory assembly of the yeomanry; 
and it was October before General Van Rensselaer found 
himself in force to warrant of offensive operations. It ap- 
pears that at this period, his solicitude for his own reputation 
and more especially the interests of the service, and the 
honour of the country, determined him to strike at the enemy. 
Pursuant to this object, on the 5th of October, he, by letter, 
required a conference with Brigadier General Smyth, and 
the commanding officers of corps under his immediate 
orders. He addressed Major Gen. Hall to the same effect ; 
and after these preliminary steps, on the 8th, he made 
the tbllowing interesting communication to the commander 
in chief 



6 APPENDIX. 

Head auarters, Lewiston, Oct. 8ih, 1812. 
Sir,— 

It is now nearly three months since, in obedience to 
the call of my country, I took the field to form and discipline 
an army, and to shape and direct a campaign on the very 
extensive frontiers of this state. This service, even in pros- 
pect, presented innumerable difficulties and embarrassments. 
Thus far I have met them in that manner which my own 
mind justifies and I trust my country will approve. After a 
general review of our frontiers, my own judgment did not 
suffer me to doubt that the Niagara river must be the scene 
of our decisive operations, and I selected this neighbourhood 
as the place best adapted to our measures, and here en- 
camped. 

Well knowing that the duties of the station you hold were 
complicated and embarrassing, I have patiently endured much, 
that the affairs of my department might embarrass you less. 
The crisis through which I have passed for the last month 
has been trying indeed ; particulars upon this occasson are 
unnecessary; but the result has justified my measures and I 
am satisfied. Yet I am well aware that any merit which 
may be attached to this negative service, will not satisfy the 
expectations of my country : to have barely escaped disas- 
ter, will not be thought enough ; the object of the war re- 
mains unaccomplished, a new crisis is opening, and as in it, 
you, sir, as well as I, have a deep stake of responsibility, I 
shall with great freedom, state to you a number of facts, 
submitting my opinions connected with them, and with defer- 
ence leave the general conclusion to your own judgment; 
and as the honour and interests of the United States, your 
own character and mine, are most intimately connected in 
the subject of deliberation, I hope and trust it may receive 
all the attention which its importance merits. 

The United States declared the war. One army has sur- 
rendered in disgrace, and another has but little more than 



APPENDIX. 7 

escaped the reiteration of the blow. The National charac- 
ter is degraded, and the disgrace will remain corroding the 
public feeling and spirit, until another campaign ; unless it be 
instantly wiped away by a brilliant close of this. — A detail 
of particulars is needless ; you, sir, know service. Our best 
troops are raw ; many of them dejected by the distress their 
families suffer by their absence, and many have not necessary 
clothing : we are in a cold country, the season is far ad- 
vanced, and unusually inclement: we are half the time 
deluged with rain. The blow must be struck soon, or all 
the toil and expense of the campaign go for nothing or worse 
than nothing, for the whole will be tinged with dishonour. 
With my present force, it would be rash to attempt offensive 
operations. I have only seventeen hundred effective men* 
of the militia on this whole line. The regular troops have 
nearly all arrived in the vicinity of Buffalo, except Schuy- 
ler's regiment. The batteaux have not arrived and I learn 
they very narrowly escaped the Royal George, at the mouth 
of Genesee river, where she had just cut out the schooner 
Lady Murray, and a Revenue Cutter. But two or three 
companies of the Pennsylvania troops had arrived at Buffalo, 
when I received my last advice from thence. 

Under these circumstances and the impressions necessarily 
resulting from them, I am adopting decisive measures for 
closing the fall campaign ; but shall wait your approbation 
of the plan, and the arrival of a competent force to execute 
it. I have summoned Major Gen. Hall, Brig. Gen. Smyth, 
and the commandants of the United States Regiments, to 
meet me on a consultation ; and I am well aware that some 
opinions entitled to great respect, will be offered for crossing 
the Niagara a little below Fort Erie, and pursuing the march 
down the river. I think this plan liable to many objections. 
The enemy have works at almost every point, and even an 

* His reinforcenjents had not then arrived, 



8 APPENDIX. 

inferior force might hold us in check and render our march 
slow ; by taking up the bridges at Chippewa, they might 
greatly embarrass us ; the cleared country is but a mile or 
two wide ; one flank would be constantly liable to be galled 
by Indians from the swamps ; for a considerable distance, 
the rapidity of the current, and the height of the banks ren- 
der transportation across the river impracticable ; of course, 
our supplies must follow the line of march, with the trouble 
and hazard of them everyday increasing; and should the 
enemy retreat from Gen. Harrison, they would have a dou- 
ble object in intercepting our supplies ; and by falling on our 
rear, and cutting off our communication, we might expe- 
rience the fate of Hull's army. Besides these, and many 
other objections, there is no object on that side, until we 
should arrive at the commanding heights of Queenstown, 
which are opposite my camp. 

The proposal which I shall submit to tlie Council will be, 
that we immediately concentrate the regular force in the 
neighbourhood of Niagara and the militia here, make the 
best possible dispositions, and, at the same time, the regulars 
shall pass from the Four-mile CreeJc to a point in the rear 
of the works of Fort George, and talc it hy storm ; I will 
pass the river here, and carry the heights of Queenstown. 
Should we succeed, we shall effect a great discomfiture of 
the enemy by breaking their line of communication, driving 
their shipping from the mouth of this river, leaving them no 
rallying point in this part of the country, appalling the 
minds of the Canadians, and opening a wide and safe com- 
munication for our supplies. We shall save our own land — 
wipe away part of the score of our past disgrace, get excel- 
lent barracks and winter-quarters, and at least be prepared 
for an early campaign another year. As soon as the result 
of the Council shall be known, I shall advise you of it. I 
have received your letter of the 29th ultimo, and shall ac- 
quaint Mr. Harrison with your direction. I regret the 



APPENDIX. 9 

slowness of the mail. I have furnished an escort for it from 
this to Buffalo. 

With great respect and consideration, &c. 

Stephen Van Rensselaer. 

Hon. Major Gen. Dearborn. 

From this letter, it will appear to any professional man 
acquainted with the country, and the circumstances of the 
enemy at that time, that, although Gen. Van Rensselaer 
was not a military man, he reasons very much like a sol- 
dier ; his point of attack was selected with masterly judg- 
ment, because, from its apparent difficulty it was least sus- 
pected, when, in fact, the counter currents under the oppo- 
site shores, and the narrowness of the river,* rendered it the 
preferable traverse ; and as to the plan of the enterprize 
which he had finally determined on, it was so simple and 
so perfect, that an act of God alone could have prevented 
the success, which would have reflected honour on a maste? 
of the trade. 

If the reader will cast his eyes over the annexed map, 
he will perceive General Van Rensselaer's camp at Lew- 
iston, (B) from whence a road (mm) has been cut by 
his order, six miles through a wood, to (N), at Four-mile 
Creek, where sixty batteaux lay equipped for service ■ from 
whence it is four and a half miles by water to Fort George, 
under a high bank, which conceals the movement until the 
boats turn the point of Niagara. The ground is so much 
elevated at Lewiston and Queenstown, that it may be called 
a mountain 5 it is an immense platform which overlooks the 
plain below, until it is terminated by Lake Ontario. Of 
consequence, every movement from Fort George would have 
been under the General's eye, as well at that of the officer 
at Fort Niagara. It was General Van Rensselaer's inten- 
tion, to have marched General Smyth and one thousand 

* Three Inmdred and fifty yards wide. 



10 



APPENDIX. 



five hundred regular troops, to the mouth of the Four-mile 
Creek, by the new road (mm,) cut for the purpose, there to 
have been held in readiness to embark at a minute's notice. 
Queenstown was then to be attacked ; and as it was guarded 
by two companies of the 49th regiment, with a party of mi- 
litia and Indians only, it would have been carried with the 
battery on the heights, as afterwards happened. These 
operations, within hearing of Fort George, could not fail to 
draw forth the garrison to sustain the post of Queenstown, 
and repel the invaders ; and, as soon as the British column 
was discovered in motion, General Smyth would have em- 
barked by a signal, and when it approached Queenstown he 
would have been ordered by a courier, to proceed to the at- 
tack of Fort George, which could not have been anticipated 
more than twenty minutes, and bemg deprived of its garri- 
son, resistance would have been vain. In the spirit of these 
memoirs I shall forbear to condemn, except when urged by 
facts. That so feasible a plan, and one of such importance 
to the national honour and interests should have failed was 
to be deplored, and the occasion certainly presented a fair 
subject for inquiry; because it could not have happened 
without some fault, which, for the good of the service, 
should have been ascertained, especially when General 
Van Rensselaer defied investigation; but the crooked po- 
licy of a corrupt cabinet will not bear inquiry, except when 
it is deemed necessary to hunt down obnoxious individuals. 

Disappointed by causes he could not control, in the medi- 
tated attack on the 11th of October, to which the impatience 
of the militia had compelled him to assent, before his mea- 
sures were matured ; and not having heard from Brigadier 
General Smyth on the 1 1 th, in answer to his note of the 5th ; 
General Van Rensselar hoped the temper of the troops 
would allow him time to repeat his summons for a consulta- 
tion with the most experienced of his officers who lay near 
Buffalo, with the intention to carry into effect his original 
(Resign ; but the ardour of those under his irpmediate orders. 



AiPPENDIX. - 11 

had been heated by disappointment, and numbers now pro^ 
posed to him the alternative, o^ marching against the enemy, 
or marching home. In such a dilemma he could not hesi- 
tate, and on consulting the principal officers of his camp, 
and finding them earnest for an immediate attack, he deter- 
mined to carry the works of the enemy on the morning of 
the !3th, before day ; having the evening before received a 
reinforcement of three hundred and fifty regular recruits 
under Lieutenant Colonel Christie, who volunteered his 
services. 

No fault can be found with the plan of attack, except in 
the deficiency of transports, which, consisting of thirteen bat- 
teaux, limited the assaulting party to three hundred non- 
commissioned officers and privates, and this defect is ascribed 
to the deficiencies of competent means in the quarter-mas* 
ter's department. I'iie embarkation was to have taken 
place on the morning of the i^th, before day, in the follow- 
ing order, viz. Col. S. Van Rensselaer with three hundred 
militia, Lieut. Col. Christie, with three hundred Regulars; 
the whole to be commanded by Colonel Van Rensselaer ; 
Lieutenant Colonel Fenwick and Major MuUany, were to 
follow with five hundred and fifty regular troops, and 
some pieces of flying artillery, and then the militia, accord- 
ing to order. The attacking party was formed in good 
time, and marched off* by files abreast, Lieut. Col. Christie 
leading the regulars, and Major Morrison the militia. When 
he arrived at the bank of the river. Col. Van Rensselaer 
halted the detachment, and descended with Major Lush and 
Lieut. Gansevoort, who acted as his aids, to see the boats 
arranged, and formed in two divisions, one for the regulars, 
and the other for the militia ; as it was intended their em- 
barkation should be simultaneous, as far as the craft would 
suffice to receive them : but, in descending the bank by a 
narrow path, which had been dug out of it, the regular 
troops got possession of it, to the exclusion of the militia; 
and the necessity occurred of countermarching a part of the 



12 APPERMX. 

regulars, or embarking the whole, in the first instance ; and 
to save tinne, the latter plan was adopted, and Major Morri- 
son ordered to follow with the militia in the return boats. 

Col. Van Rensselaer had examined the bearings of the 
enemy's heavy battery, on the mountain at (c,)* and that of 
one gun below Queenstown, at (L), and perceived that by 
by crossing the river near the gorge of the mountain, he 
should in a great measure escape the range of their shot ; he 
accordingly made his traverse at (o), and landed on a nar- 
row beach, under a steep bank of forty feet elevation ; but, 
unfortunately, three of the boats which put off with him, 
bearing Lieutenant Colonel Christie,! Captain Lawrence, 
and a subaltern whose name is not known, returned without 
the orders of Col. Van Rensselaer, and carried back seventy- 
five of the detachment, which too sensibly impaired his 
force; hut the retreat of this party produced a most perni- 
cious effect on the militia, particularly as it made no im- 
mediate attempt to effect a passage. The natural reflec- 
tion produced by this spectacle in the minds of the yeo- 
manry was, "If the regular troops cannot cross the river, 
surely it cannot be expected of us." Thousands of specta- 
tors were looking on, and there can be no doubt that the in- 
cident staggered their resolution. 

The narrowness of the river, without the agency of spies, 
would necessarily warn the enemy of the movement ; and 
they were prepared for Van Rensselaer's reception. Their 
force at Queenstown, when the attack was made, consisted of 
two companies of the 49th regiment, I suppose one hundred 
and sixty men, with a party of militia, and a few Indians, who 
resisted their landing. They ascertained Van Rensselaer's 
approach by the sound of his oars, and opened their fire from 

♦ See the INIap. 

t Col. Christie whose high standing as an officer placed his courage 
above suspicion is no more ; but Capt. Lawrence, who lives, and is 
second to no officer of his grade, alleges, I understand, that he retreated 
by order of Col. Christie. At all events, no satisfactory reason has 
been given for the boats not proceeding. 



APPENDIX. 13 

the top of the bank, as soon as they could discern his move- 
ments, by which Lieut. Rathbone was mortally wounded on 
board of Col. Van Rensselaer's boat. The landing was effected 
with two hundred and twenty-five men, who formed under a very 
warm fire, climbed tlie bank, and routed the enemy at the point 
of the bayonet, without firing a shot ; but in this operation En- 
sign Morris was killed, and Capts. Malcolm, Armstrong, and 
Wool were wounded; Col. Van Rensselaer himself was pe- 
cuHarly unfortunate, and, to the accident which befel him, 
the day's disaster may be partly attributed ; he received one 
ball in his hip, which passed out at his spine, two in his 
thigh, one of which lodged, two in his leg, and a sixth con- 
tused his heel ; he however kept his feet, and the enemy 
having fled towards the town, he ordered Capt. Wool, the 
senior officer capable of duty, to ascend the mountain and 
carry the battery ; givmg him a direction for his movement, 
by which he would avoid the enemy's artillery; placing 
Lieuts. Randolph and Gansevoort, who volunteered, at the 
head of the little column, and Major Lush, another volunteer, 
in the rear, with order to put to death the first man who 
should fall back. During this time, he had concealed his 
wounds under a great coat borrowed from Major Lush ; and 
when the party had filed off before him, no longer able to 
support himself^ he fell to the ground. It was just then clear 
day-light, and he found himself among the wounded, the 
dying, and the dead. A crust of bread, and some water, 
furnished by one of the former, prevented him from fainting. 
The anguish resulting from his wounds, and every selfish 
feeling, was silenced by the contemplation of his wounded 
companions ; but even these lost much of their interest, when 
put in competition w4th his anxiety for the safety and suc- 
cess of the gallant detachment he had ordered to the heights. 
It pleased, however the great Disposer of events, that this 
anxiety should be short-lived ; and for the blood he had thus 
spilled in his country's cause, he was remunerated by the 
consoling shouts of victory. I had marked the patriot sol- 

2 



14 APPENDIX, 

dier some eighteen years before, when " the callow down 
had scarce begun to shade his cheek, and call him man," 
giving earnest of future promise, and asserting claims to fu- 
ture lame ; I beheld him in a gallant charge at the head 
of his troop, shot through the body and with the blood oozing 
from his lungs, still smiling with complacency; yet since the 
days of General Washington, nor the blood of the father, 
nor the son has found grace in the eyes of the executive ; 
and amidsi thousands of offices which have been indiscrimi- 
nately lavished on the worthy and the worthless, this faithful 
citizen and honourable man has not been deemed worthy of 
attention. 

The sequel of the affair of Queenstown, about which we 
have heard almost as much misrepresentation and folly as 
about the battle of Bridgewater, will be best described by 
an extract from the official letter of General Van Rensselaer;* 
and the following report of Capt. Wool will put to rest seve- 
ral controverted points. 

Buffalo, Oct. 23, 1812. 
Dear Sir, — 

I have the honour to communicate to you the circum- 
stances attending the storming of Queenstown battery on the 
13th instant; with those which happened previously, you are 
already well acquainted. 

In pursuance of your order we proceeded round the point, 
and ascended the rocks, which brought us partly in rear of 
the battery. We took it without much resistance. I imme- 
diately formed the troops in the rear of the battery, and front- 
ing the village, when I obsreved Gen. Brock with his troops 
formed, consisting of four companies of the 49th Regiment 
and a ^g\v Militia, marching for our left flank. I immedi- 
ately detached a party of one hundred and fifty men, to take 
possession of the heights above Queenstown battery and to 

* See Appenaix, JNo. 2. 



APPENDIX. 15 

hold Gen. Brock in check, but in consequence of his supe- 
rior force they retreated. I sent a reinforcement, notwith- 
standing which, the enemy drove us to the edge of the bank, 
when with the greatest exertion we brought the troops to a 
stand, and ordered the officers to bring their men to a charge 
as soon as the ammunition was expended, which was execu- 
ted with some confusion, and in a few minutes, the enemy 
retreated. We pursued them to the edge of the heights, 
when CoL Mc. Donald had his horse shot from under him, 
and himself mortally wounded. In the mean time Gen. 
Brock, in attempting to rally his forces, was killed, when 
the enemy dispersed in every direction. As soon as it was 
practicable, I formed the troops in a line on the heights 
fronting the village, and immediately detached flanking par- 
ties which consisted of Captain M'Chesney of the 6th Re- 
giment, Lieut. Smith and Ensign Grosvenor with a small 
detachment of Riflemen which had that moment arrived; 
at the same time I ordered Lieut. Gansevoort and Lieut. 
Randolph with a detachment of artillery to drill out an 
eighteen pounder which had been previously spiked, and if 
possible to bring it to bear upon the village. The wounded 
and prisoners I ordered to be collected and sent to the guard 
house. About this time, which was between three and four 
o'clock in the afternoon, Lieut. Col. Christie arrived and 
took the command. He ordered me across the river to get 
my wounds dressed. I remained a short time. Our flank- 
ing parties had been driven in by the Indians, but Gen. 
Wadsworth and other officers arriving, we had a short skir- 
mish with them and they retreated, and I crossed the river. 
The ofhcers engaged in storming the Battery, were Capts. 
Wool and Ogilvie; Lieuts. Kearney, Hugonin, Carr, and 
Sammons of the 13th ; Lieuts. Gansevoort and Randolph of 
the Light Artillery, and Major Lush of the Militia. I re- 
commend to your particular notice Lieuts. Randolph, Carr, 



16 APPENDIX. 

and Kearney, for their brave conduct exhibited during the 
whole of the action. 

I have the honour to be 

Your most obt. humble servt., 
John E. Wool, 

Capt. 13th Regt. Infantry. 
Col. Solomon Van Rensselaer. 

The names of the officers who accompanied Col. Van 
Rensselaer on this hardy enterprise, deserve to be engraved 
on the scroll of fame, for surmounting obstacles almost insu- 
perable, in the face of a determined enemy, under a heavy 
fire, and dislodging and pursuing a superior force, composed 
of two Companies of the 49th British Regiment, advantage- 
ously posted, with a body of auxiliary Militia and Indians : 
It was indeed a display of intrepidity rarely exhibited, in 
which the conduct and the execution were equally conspicu- 
ous. Here true valour, so often mistaken for animal 
courage,* was attested by an appeal to the bayonet, which 
decided the conflict without a shot. It must not be forgotten 
that two hundred and twenty-five men accomplished what 
six hundred were intended to achieve, and the reader will 
bear in mind, that with the single exception of Col. Van 
Rensselaer, it was the first military combat in which either 
men or officers had been engaged. Under all the circum- 
stances, and on the scale of the operation the impartial sol- 
dier and competent judge, will name this brilliant affair the 
chef-d'oeuvre of the war. 



* In the American service, temerity is too often taken for bravery, 
yet the distinction between them is as wide as between blindness and 
vision. Marshal Saxe when a youth was seen to court danger in the 
battle of Malplaquet, and afterwards at the siege of Bethune in Flan- 
ders, for which he was complimented by the tribe of courtiers. This 
drew from Prince Eugene the following wholesome admonitions: "La 
temerite ne passera pas pour bravour, vous ne devez pas les confonde 
car les connoisseur, ne s'y meprendront pas. 



APPENDIX. 17 

Yet we heard of no mark of distinction, no honorary pro- 
motions on the occasion ; the efficacy of Brevets had not 
then been discovered, nor had it become necessary to cover 
the disgrace of the cabinet, by raising up idols for the adora- 
tion of the people ; but if the executive could for a moment 
have forgotten that Gen. Van Rensselaer was a federalist, 
and opposed to Gov. Tompkins as a candidate for the go- 
vernment of the State of New- York, his reluctance to render 
common justice to the principal actors in this gallant scene, 
would have been counteracted by the self-evident policy of 
exhibiting it to the country in its true light— by contrasting 
it with the melancholy tale of Detroit, thus dissipating the 
gloom that hung over the soldiery and the country, and 
shewing them what deeds Americans were capable of per- 
forming. It is true complete success did not ultimately 
crown this enterprize ; but two great ends were obtained for 
the country — It re-established the character of the Ameri- 
can Army, and deprived the enemy by the death of Gen. 
Brock, of the best officer that has headed their troops m 
Canada throughout the war, and with his loss put an end to 
their then brilliant career. 

I proceed to discharge a pleasing office by stating that 
the officers who accompanied Col. Van Rensselaer, were 
Major of Brigade, Lush of the militia, Lieuts. Randolph and 
Gansevoort, volunteers from the light artillery; Lieut. 
Rathbone of the heavy artillery ; Capts. Malcolm, Wool, 
Armstrong, Ogilvie, and Lieuts. Kearney, Sammons, Carr, 
and Hugonin, and Ensign Morris of the 13th Infantry of 
whom two were killed and four wounded. The conspicuous 
gallantry of Lieut. Randolph attracted the attention of the 
enemy, and excited the admiration of his brethren in arms. 

Things turned out exactly as Gen. Van Rensselaer had 
anticipated : Gen. Sheaffis, who succeeded to the command, 
on finding that the force at Queenstown had been routed and 
Gen. Brock killed, stripped Fort George of its garrison, and 
leaving it in charge of the ordinary guard, marched against 



18 APPENDIX. 

the invaders ; and if a great part of the militia had not vio- 
lated their promise, and abandoned their duty he might have 
been crushed in fifteen minutes, and the peninsula would 
have fallen into our hands. In this state of things an expe- 
rienced officer, on seeing Sheaffe advance and file off from 
the direct route towards St. Davids by (q,qq*) iu order to 
avoid a conflict ia ascending the mountain, would have met 
him at that point where he could have been repulsed with 
half numbers; or having made the previous arrangement 
with his officers for the coup as soon as Sheaffe had reached 
St. Davids, he would have precipitated himself upon Fort 
George by the direct road and leaving the enemy four or 
five miles in his rear could have taken the place before they 
could have succoured it, and turned their own guns upon them. 
A single reflection would have justified the attempt — without 
retreat, the American detachment could not avoid an action, 
and by the abandonment of the militia were exposed to de- 
feat, from which the capture of Fort George alone could 
save them. If they had failed in the attempt their misfor- 
tunes would not have been increased ; but the chance was in 
their favour. — They might gain much, and could lose little. 
By some persons, Gen. Van Rensselaer was censured for 
his conduct on this occasion ; but this was more the effect of 
party animosity, than any just ground of condemnation. In 
entering upon his command when a rival of the Governor 
of the state for a succession to the government, he evinced 
his disinterested patriotism, and exposed himself to great 
hazard in point of reputation; for it is a fair presumption, 
that it was not Gov. Tompkins ' intention by the selection to 
strengthen the interests of his opponoiit, as this gentleman, 
with a thousand amiable and generous qualities, could not be 
expected to commit political suicide. Advocate as I am for 
the yeomanry of my country, I can find no excuse for the 
conduct of the militia on that occasion. By imperiously de- 

* See Map. 



APPENDIX. 



19 



manding the attack on Queenstown, they virtually pledged 
themselves to support it. The attack was made, but their 
pledge remained unredeemed ; it is in vain that we search 
for the cause. 

The army on the Straits of Niagara could have been as- 
sembled for offence only : therefore, Gen. Van Rensselaer, 
in making the attack, fulfilled the obligations of duty, and 
the views of government. The adjoining return,* taken 
from the official documents, will show that his force was 
more than sufficient for the occasion ; and if blameable at 
all, it was in yielding to the alternative presented to him by his 
fellow-citizens and fellow-soldiers, before his preparations 
satisfied his own judgment; yet under the actual circum- 
stances of the operation, as far as they have reached my 
knowledge, if the militia had been faithful to their engage- 
ments, and true to themselves, the whole might have passed 
the straits before the arrival of the British column under 
General Sheaffe, whom they might have cut off from Fort 
George, and captured or destroyed, after which the surren- 
der of the Fort would have become a matter of form. 



* Return of the troops under the command of Major General Ste- 
phen Van Rensselaer of the New-York Militia, Head-Gluarters, Lew- 
iston, October 12tli, 1812. 



BrisaJes. 


Where 

stationed. 


Total 

present for 

duty. 


Remarks. 


Brig. Gen. Miller's, 
Lt. Col. Jno R. Fenwick's, 
Lt. Col. P. Swift's, and ) 
Lt. Col. S. Hopkins's, ] 
Brig. Gen. Wadsworth's, 
Brig Gen. Smyth's, 
Lt.^Col. Christie's, 


Lewiston, 
Lewiston, 
Bl'k Rock & ) 
Buff do, i 
Lewiston, 
Black Rock, 
Lewiston, 


5S8 
550 

3S6 

1G82 

1650 

350 


Militia. 
Regulars. 

Militia. 

Militia. 

Regulars. 
Reirulars. 



N. B. Having omitted in its proper place, I will here particularize, 
that it v/as the grenadier and light companies of tiie 49tli regiment, 
which opposed Col. Van Rensselaer's landing: they were 175 strong, 
commanded by Capts. Dennie and Williams, who were both wounded, 
and had three sergeants and thirty-nine rank and file killed and 
wounded. This was from an official return taken at York . 



APPENDIX, No. II. 



From Major General Van Rensselaer to his Excellency Governor 
Tompkins. 
Ogdensburgh, Julj^ 23d, 1812, 8 o'clock, P. M. 

Sir,— 
On receiving information that Sackett's Harbour was 
menaced by the enemy, I deemed it expedient that General 
Brown should repair there ; and, accordingly, he departed 
from this place early yesterday morning. One reason for 
my remaining a day or two longer at this post was, to 
await, and possibly improve the success which might attend 
a projected attack upon a ten-gun British schooner which 
has for several days been lying at the dock in Prescott, op- 
posite to this place. The proposed attack was concerted 
by my aid-de-camp, Col. Van Rensselaer, and Col. Bene- 
dict who commands at this post. Yesterday was spent in 
preparations. The boarding-boats were ready at 1 o'clock, 
last night, and the attack was to have been made by land 
and water, at 3 in the morning. But when every thing was 
prepared in such manner as to promise complete success, it 
was discovered with infinite chagrin and mortification, that 
only sixty-six men would volunteer for the service ! This 
number being by no means competent. Cols. Van Rensse- 
laer and Benedict, who would certanily have led the men to 
action with the most cool and determined bravery, were 
compelled to abandon an enterprize honourable in itself^ and 
upon the result of which might have depended the whole 
command of the Lake and river. 

This promising project having been blasted, and as no- 
thing further of consequence appeared to demand my longer 
stay here, 1 was on the eve of my departure at five o'clock 



APPENDIX. 21 

this afternoon, when a large armed ship was discovered 
coming down the river. She has anchored close on shore, 
on the opposite side of the river, near to the schooner, and 
appears to be a fourteen-gun ship. Considerable solicitude 
prevails in this place. It is generally believed that the ves- 
sels in the harbour are the object of the enemy. The own- 
ers of the vessels are preparing to scuttle them, or remove 
them as far out of the reach of the enemy as may be. The 
troops are busy constructing a fort of timber north of Pa- 
rish's store, on the best ground for the purpose. But, sir, 
our very great misfortune is, that we have only two six- 
pounders. If this harbour is to be protected, it is abso- 
lutely necessary that I should be immediately furnished with 
cannon of competent caUbre, for the probably approaching 
emergency. I shall wait your answer by the return of the 
express, and govern myself accordingly. 

I have the honour, &c. 

His Excellency Gov. Tompkins. 

From Major General Dearborn lo Major General Van Rensselaer. 

Head Quarters, Greenbush, July29Lh, 1812. 
Major General Van Rensselaer, 
Sir — 
Your situation, I presume, will enable you to ascertain 
what force the enemy can bring into action against offensive 
operations on our part at Kingston and its vicinity; and 
what forces, in addition to those under your command, would 
be necessary to render offensive operations in that quarter 
sufficiently sure of success. Any information you can give 
me on this, and all other points in relation to your com- 
mand, and on the general state of things with you, and in 
Upper Canada, is requested ; and it is highly desirable that 
you afford me the earliest information, from time to time, of 
any occurrences in your vicinity sufficiently important to 
be communicated. You will readily perceive the expe- 
diency of employing suitable characters for obtaining and 



22 APPENDIX. 

communicating to you correct information in relation to the 
enemy's force, and the disposition of the mihtia, and inhabi- 
tants generally in the Province. 

Proper encouragement should be given to such persons as 
you may confide in, for their services in this employment ; 
and I shall hold myself accountable for any necessary ex- 
penditures attendant on it. I have not had an opportunity of 
conferring with Governor Tompkins ; but as he is shortly ex- 
pected home, I shall soon have the pleasure of a conference 
in relation to your command, and tlie situation of the frontier 
generally. Not being informed of the extent of your com- 
mand, I have written to the commanding officers at Niagara 
and Plattsburgh, from the presumption that there might be 
three distinct commands; but if I am mistaken, I trust no 
material inconvenience will result from it. Be assured, sir, 
that your appointment to your present command, your ready 
acceptance of it, and promptitude in repairing to the fron- 
tiers, affords high satisfaction to our good citizens, and is 
peculiarly gratifying to your very, &c. 

From rslajor General Dearborn to Pvlajor General Van R,cnsselacr. 
Head-Ctuarters, Greenbush, Aug. 3d, 1812. 
Major Gen. Van Rensselaer, or the Comrn'g Officer at Fort Niagara. 
Sir.— 
You will please take measures for keeping up a corres- 
pondence with Gen. Hull, and ascertain his movements by 
express, or otherwise ; and as he has crossed over to Upper 
Canada, and taken possession of Fort Maiden, it will be ex- 
pedient to make every exertion in your power to co-operate 
with him. If your force will not admit of any strong offen- 
sive operations, it is highly desirable that such diversions 
should be made in his favour, as will prevent the enemy from 
detaching any force from the vicinity of Niagara to oppose 
the movements of Gen. Hull. I trust you will soon be 
called to act in a more decisive manner. 
I am, &c. 



APPENDIX. 23 

From Major General Van Rensselaer, to His Excellency Governor 
Tompkins. 

Bufi:ilo, August llih, 1812, 
Sir,- 

I have to advise your Excellency that I arrived here 
last evening, and various considerations induced me to adopt 
measures for obtaining tlie most satisfactory information 
respecting the situation of General Hull. Accordingly, I 
this morning sent my aid-de-camp to Black Rock, having 
heard that Judge Porter, brother of the Quarter Master 
General, had lately returned from Detroit. Col. Van Rens- 
selaer has returned, having had a conference with the Quar- 
ter Master General, and Judge Porter. The amount of in- 
formation obtained is substantially this. — That Judge Porter, 
left Detroit, on the 29th ult. General Hull, was entrenchino- 
himself opposite to Detroit : — Fort Maiden was not taken as 
has been reported ;— General Hull's force was eight hun- 
dred. At Brown's Town, below Detroit are fifteen hundred 
hostile Indians. Quarter Master General Porter has lately 
sent several boats with provisions for General Hull; but 
unfortunately, one boat has been taken by the enemy, and 
unfavourable apprehensions are entertained for the other 
boats. It is here, generally believed that detachments of 
troops have been sent from Fort George, to relieve Fort 
Maiden; the number remaining behind, I have not been able 
to ascertain, but shall endeavour to make this an object of 
early inquiry. It is said that the enemy abound on the op- 
posite shore, with ordnance, and every munition of war. 
We are, here, as indeed at all of our posts, lamentably defi- 
cient in ordnance. The situation of Ogdensburgh, and the 
necessity of supplying it with heavy ordnance, I have before 
stated to your Excellency in my letter by express from that 
place. Every consideration connected with the success of 
any operations in this quarter, urges me to solicit the earli- 
est possible supply of heavy ordnance, and seme skilful 
engineers, and artillerists. Without such aid and supplies, T 



34 APPENDIX. 

can hardly conceive how it will be possible for us to achieve 
any thing of importance, or even defend our posts in case of 
attacks from the enemy. I shall, to-morrow, proceed on to 
Black Rock and Lewiston, and make further communications 
of every incident of moment. 

I have spent a part of this day with Red Jacket, Corn 
Planter, and a number of other Indians of influence. They 
very kindly consider me as the messenger of peace and 
friendship, specially delegated by your excellency. Their 
professions are unreservedly friendly, and I believe sincere. 

I have this day received a letter from Major General Dear- 
born, in which he speaks of Fort Maiden as being taken : I 
have given him such information on the subject as I have 
here obtained. 

I have the honour, &c. 

From Major General Dearborn to Major General Hall ; or Com- 
manding officer, cvc. 

Head Cluarters, Green Bush, Aug. 8, 1812. 
Major General Hall, 
Sir,— 

Having received from Sir Geo. Provost, Governor and 
Commander in Chief of the forces in Canada, by Col. 
Baynes, his Adjutant General, despatches from England, to our 
government, of a conciliatory nature ; and a proposition on 
the part of Sir George Provost, for a mutual cessation of 
hostilities on the Frontiers, 'I have so far complied with the 
proposition, as to agree to direct the respective Commanding 
Officers on the side of the United States, to confine their re- 
spective operations to defensive measures until they receive 
further orders. Similar orders are given to the British Com- 
manders. You will, therefore, confine the operations of the 
troops under your command to defensive measures until you 
receive further orders. It being explicitly understood, that 
if General Hull should continue to act offensively, and any 
movement of the enemy's troops in your vicinity should 



APPENDIX. 25 

take place with a view to offensive operations, it will be con- 
sidered as an infraction of this agreement and you will gov- 
ern yourself accordingly. 

I am, sir, &c. 

From Sam. S. Conner, A. D. to Gen. Deiruorn, to the command- 
ing officer at Niagara. 
Sir,— 

You will please to communicate the enclosed commu- 
nication which is from the British Adjutant General, to the 
British commanding officer, opposite Niagara and Detroit, 
that he may immediately communicate it to Col. Proctor. 

Yours, &c. 

From Major General Van Rensselaer to Major General Dearborn. 
Head Gtuarters, Lewiston, 18 August, 1812, 6 o'clock, A. M. 
Sir, — 

Your letter of the 8th inst., by some mismanagement 
passed this place in the mail, last evening, on to Niagara, 
and was sent to me by express from Capt. Leonard at a late 
hour in the night. I have written General Hull inclosing 
your letter to him. I have also written General Porter to 
forward the despatch to General Hull immediately, by some 
very trusty express. I have written the commanding officer 
at Fort George enclosing the letters from Adjutant General 
Baynes to him, and sent my aid-de-camp, Col. Van Rensse- 
laer, to Niagara, with orders to pass over with a Flag and 
deliver the letters. 

I have the honour, &c. 
Major General Dearborn. 

From Major Gen. Van Rensselaer to Lieut. Col. Myers, 70th Regt. 

Head-Cluarters, Lewiston, 18th Aug., 1812. 
Sir,— 

I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of 
your letter of this date, by your flag of truce. 
When I this morning transmitted to you the two letters 
3 



26 APPENDIX. 

from the Adjutant General of the British army, I authorized 
Col. Van Rensselaer my Aid-de-camp, to make with you 
the necessary arrangements in relation to the armistice 
agreed on at Albany. 

In your absence from Fort George, the letters were left 
without accomplishing the object. But 1 am now ready to 
send an otiicer to Fort Niagara, there to meet one whom 
you may appoint to make such arrangements for the govern- 
ment of the troops on the lines, as may be proper. In the 
mean time, it is explicitly understood that any movements of 
your troops in this vicinity, with a view to act offensively 
against Gen Hull will be considered an infraction of the ar- 
mistice agreed upon between Gen. Dearborn and the British 

Adjutant General. 

I have the honour, &c. 
Lieut. Col. INTyers. 

Col. Myers, TOth Regt. D. Q. Master Gen. commanding the Niagara 
District, to Maj. Gen, Van Rensselaer. 

Chippewa, 18th Aug., 1812. 
Sir,— 

I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of 
your letter of this date, transmitting one from the Adjutant 
Genera] of the British army, addressed to Major Gen. Brock 
or officer commanding Fort George — relative to refraining 
from all offensive warfare between the troops of his Majesty 
the king of Great Britain, and the army of the United States 
of America, until further orders: and taking it for granted, 
that similar directions have been received by you from Gen. 
Dearborn, 1 shall strictly conform to those which have just 
reached me upon the subject : and should you deem any 
further explanation upon the terms of this armistice requi- 
site, I will receive such officer as you may be pleased to 
send to Fort George for the purpose — my duty, however 
will not allow of my being there before Thursday ; but from 
which I trust no inconvenience will arise. 

I have the honour, &c. 
Major Gen. Van Rensselaer, &c. &c., Lewiston. 



APPENDIX. 27 

From Major Gen. Sheafte, to Major Gen. Van Rensselaer. 

Fort George, 19th Aug., 1812. 

■Sir,— 

Having arrived at this Post to assume the command 
of his Majesty's troops stationed in the Niagara district, I 
have the honour to acquaint you that I shall be happy to 
receive, as speedily as possible, the officer suggested by 
Lieut. Col. Myers to be sent over, if it meet with your con- 
currence, or should you prefer it, Brigadier Major Evans, 
the bearer of this will communicate my sentiments, and ar- 
range with you the mode of carrying into effect, the order 
for a cessation of hostilities betwixt the forces of our respec- 
tive countries, stationed on the line along the Niagara 
Frontier, 

I have the honour, &c. 

(Signed) R. H. Sheaffe, 

Major General, &c. 
Major Gen. Van Rensselaer or Officer commanding United States 
forces, Niagara District of New-Yoi k. 

From Major Gen. Sheaffe to Major Gen. Van Rensselaer. 

Ctueenstown, 20th Aug., 1812. 
Sir,— 

Brigade Major Evans is directed to repair again to 

your head-quarters, charged with propositions connected 

with the armistice, and which I hope will prove perfectly 

satisfactory to you. 

1 have the honour, &c. 

{Signed) R. H. S. Maj. Gen. commanding 

H. B. M, Troops, 

Niagara Frontier. 
Major Gen. Van Rensselaer. 

From Major Gen. Van Rensselaer to his excellency Gov. Tompkins. 

Head-Ctuarters, Lcwiston, Aug. 19th, 1812. 
Sir,— 

After having visited Buffalo, Black Rock, the Camps 

at Niagara Falls, and this place, and having by inspection 



28 APPENDIX. 

and other means of information satisfied myself of the effi- 
cient force, the state of discipline among the troops, the mu- 
nitions of war at command; the strength, number, and condi- 
tion of the enemy I should probably have to engage, and all 
other circumstances connected with my intended operations, 
I was perfectly satisfied that although some very imperious 
considerations urged an immediate descent upon Canada, yet 
that such descent with my present disposable force, would 
be rashness in the extreme. From Buffalo to Niagara, 
my force of militia, is less than one thousand ; without any 
ordnance heavier than six pounders, and but few of them : 
without artillerists to use the few pieces I have, and the 
troops in a very indifferent state of discipline ; finding my- 
self in this truly unpleasant situation, I saw but one course to 
pursue which was to concentrate the troops scattered on this 
line, perfect their discipline as fast as possible, and order in 
such further detachments as might ensure success in my pro- 
posed operations. Accordingly, on the 15th inst. I issued 
my order to Lieut. Col. Fenwick at Oswego, to detach and 
march to this place Major Moseley's battalion of riflemen ; 
on the 16th an order to Major Septimus Evans, of Lieut. 
Col. George D. Wickham's regiment of detached cavalry, 
for a troop of horse from his squadron : — to Lieut. Col. 
Henry Bloom of the 19th regiment of the 7th brigade of 
detached militia to march his whole command : with this ad- 
ditional force, and such other as I had reason to believe was 
on the march to this neighbourhood, and as might be called 
out at short notice, from this and Ontario county, I conclud- 
ed that the plan which I had adopted might be attempted, 
unless the enemy on the opposite shore should be strongly 
reinforced. With the view of these intended operations, I 
had, on the 1 5th inst. written to the Quarter-master General 
to put immediately in readiness all the boats at his commam' 
— such was the arrangement of the troops on this line, ana 
such my orders issued, when, in the night of the Hth I re- 
ceived by express from Capt, Leonard at Niagara, a letter 



APPENDIX. 



29 



from Major Gen. Dearborn, informing me of the agreement 
he had entered into with the Governor General of Canada, 
through his Adjutant General, for an armistice. By this 
arrangement, thus communicated to me, which I presume 
has been done with your Excellency's approbation and 
consent, I am instructed to confine the troops under my 
command to defensive measures only, until further orders ; 
and I have issued my general orders accordingly. The in- 
closures from the Adjutant General of the British army in 
Canada, which I received from General Dearborn, I sent, 
yesterday morning, by my aid-de camp Col. Van Rensselaer, 
with a flag to Lieut. Col. Myers commanding at Fort George ; 
at the same time, authorizing Col. Van Rensselaer to enter with 
Col. Myers into a defmite arrangement for the government of 
the troops on both sides of the lines. Col. Myers was absent ; 
but in the afternoon of yesterday I received by flag, a letter 
from him acknowledging the receipt of the letters which had 
been transmitted to him, with his pledge to conform strictly to 
the terms of the armistice and his proposition that I should, 
oa Thursday next, send an officer to Fort George, to meet 
one whom he will appoint, for the purpose of settling defi- 
nitely the terms of an arrangement for the government of 
the troops : — 'To which I have replied by flag, that I am 
now ready to send an officer to meet such one as he may 
appoint for the above purpose, but to meet at Niagara, as 
I consider that place, under existing circumstances, the most 
proper. I have no reason to doubt but this arrangement, 
will in two or three days be made, in good faith. 
His Excellency Gov. Tompkins. 

From Major General Van R.ensselaer, to Major General SheafFe. 
Head Gtuarters, Lewiston, 20th August, 1812. 
Sir,— 

I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your 
letter of this date, covering the articles which you propose, 
for carrying the Armistice into effect. I have to regret that 

3* 



30 APPENDIX. 

the articles proposed, are so variant from the orders which I 
have received that I cannot accede to them. 

In the letter which I had the honour to transmit to Lieut. 
Col. Myers, on the 18th instant, it was explicitly stated, that 
any movements of the troops in this vicinity with a view to 
act offensively against General Hull, would be considered an 
infraction of the Armistice. If an article, fully embracing 
the above is inadmissible, any further attempts for an adjust- 
ment, will be unavailing. 

I have, &c. 

We, the undersigned, in conformity with the instructions 
of our respective Commanders, hereby agree to a cessation 
of all acts of hostility between the troops and vessels of all 
descriptions under our command, until we shall receive further 
orders : and the party who shall first receive orders for the 
renewal of hostilities, shall give four days' notice, computing 
twenty-four hours to each day, before any offensive operation 
shall take place. 

And we further agree, that no reinforcements of men, or i 
supplies of ammunition shall be sent, by either party, higher 
up than Fort Erie ; and it is also to be understood, that no 
reinforcements of men, no supplies of ammunition which now 
are, or hereafter may arrive in our respective districts shall 
be forwarded above that Post. And further, that no troops 
are to be sent up from any stations in either of our districts 
above Fort Erie, without four days' previous notice to be. 
be given by the party intending to make such movements ; :: 
Subject, however, to the above restrictions, either party i\ 
shall be at liberty to make such changes and movements of^ 
troops, vessels, and boats as he may deem proper. ! 

Agreed to this twenty-first of August, in the year one ' 

thousand eight hundred and twelve. | 

(Signed) S. Van Rensselaer, I 

Major General, commanding Frontiers, New-Yoik. j 

R. H. Sheaffe, \ 

Major General, commanding Fort George and Dependencies. 



APPENDIX. 31 

From Major General Van Rensselaer to Major General Dearborn. 

Head Gtuarters, Lewiston, August 21, 1812. 
Sir,— 

Inclosed I transmit you a copy of an figreement, this 
day entered into between Major General Sheaffe, command- 
ing Fort George and Dependencies, &c. &c. and myself, for 
the government of the forces on each side the line. You 
will readily perceive, that terms more favourable than those 
expected in your letter, have been obtamed. The agreement 
speaks for itself. 

INIajor General Dearborn. 

From Major General Van Rensselaer to Major General Sheaffe. 

Head Gtuarters, Lewiston, 25th August, 1812. 
Sir,— 

I have learnt, with regret, that last night a subaltern 
oiHcer with a few soldiers and citizens, contrary to my or- 
ders, passed over from the American shore, and on Buck- 
horn Island, surprized and brought off a sergeant and five 
men, with a boat. Early this morning, I ordered the ser- 
geant and men released, and the boat restored to them. 
I have the honour, &c. 
Major General Sheaffe, Commanding, &c. 

Major General Isaac Brock to Major General Van Rensselaer. 

Head Gtuarters, Fort George, 25th August, 1812. 
Sir,- 

Major General Sheaffe having communicated to me 
your letter of this date, addressed to him, I seize upon the 
first moment to express my thanks for the measures you have 
adopted to prevent the possibility of any misunderstanding 
which might have arisen in consequence of the unauthorized 
act of one of your subaltern officers. 

It was not until my arrival at Fort Erie, late in the even- 
ing of the 23d instant that I learnt that a cessation of hostili- 
ties had been agreed upon, between General Dearborn and 



32 APPENDIX. 

Sir George Provost ; and I, in consequence, despatched early 
yesterday morning, an express to Amherstburgh, ordering a 
cessation of all offensive operations against the United States, 
in that quarter; and likewise to exert every influence in re- 
straining the Indians from committing any acts of hostility. 

The fortune of war having put me in possession of 
Detroit and its dependencies, a small garrison has been 
ordered to occupy the Fort, the chief object of which was 
to afford protection to the inhabitants of the Territory. I 
have the honour to enclose a copy of a Proclamation which 
I issued upon this occasion. 

I have the honour, &c. 
Major General Van Rensselaer, commanding Lewiston. 

From Majir General Van Rensselaer, to Mijor General Dearborn. 

Head duarters, Lewiston, 26th August, 1812. 

Sir,— 

I have the honour to enclose you a copy of a Pro- 
clamation, which I this day received from Major General 
Brock, under cover of his letter of this date to me; a copy 
of which letter, I also transmit to you. My letter to Major 
General Sheaffe, of which mention is made, was to disavow 
an imprudent act of a subaltern officer, who, with a few sol- 
diers and citizens, passed over, since the Armistice, to Buck- 
horn Island, and there surprised a sergeant and five men, of 
the enemy, and brought them off, together with their boat, 
which men I ordered to be immediately released and the 
boat restored. 

The surrender of General Hull's army excites a great 
deal of alarm in this vicinity. I shall, however, as far as 
in my power, check and keep it under. 

I have, &c. 

Major General Dearborn. 



APPENDIX. 33 



MAJOR GENERAL BROCK S PROCLAMATION. 

Proclamation by Isaac Brock, Esq., Major General com- 
manding his Majesty's forces in the Province of Upper 
Canada, &c. &c. 

Whereas the Territory of Michigan was this day by ca- 
)itulation ceded to the arms of his Britannic Majesty, with- 
)ut any other condition than the protection of private pro- 
)erty ; and wishing to give an early proof of the moderation 
md justice of the government, I do hereby announce to all 
he inhabitants of the said Territory, that the laws hereto- 
bre in existence shall continue in force until his Majesty's 
)leasure be known ; or so long as the peace and safety of 
he said Teri'itory will admit thereof; and I do hereby also 
leclare and make known to the said inhabitants, that they 
hall be protected in the full exercise and enjoyment of their 
eligion : of which all persons, both civil and military will 
ake notice, and govern themselves accordingly. 

All persons having in their possession, or having know- 
edge of any public property, shall forthwith deliver in the 
iame, or give notice thereof to the officer commanding, or 
A. Col. Nichol, who are hereby authorized to receive and 
;ive proper receipts for the same. Officers of militia will 
)e held responsible that all arms in possession of militiamen, 
)e immediately delivered up ; and all individuals whatever, 
vho have in their possession arms of any kind, will deliver 
hem up without delay. 

Given under my hand at Detroit, this sixteenth day of 
August, 1812, and in the fifty-second year of his Majesty's 
•eign. 

(Signed) Isaac Brock, Major General. 

A true copy. 
i J. Mac Donell, Lt. Col. Militia, P. A. D. C. 



34 APPENDIX. 

From Major General Dearborn to Major General Van Rensselaer. 
Head-auarters, Greenbush, August 21, 1812. 

Major General Van Rensselaer. 
Sir,— 
Your letter of the 12th inst. has been duly received. As 
it is believed that a detachment has been made from Niagara, 
to reinforce the garrison at Maiden, it will be necessary to 
be as well prepared as possible to take advantage of the 
reduced forces in your front : and, as soon as there shall be 
orders to act offensively ; considerable reinforcements from 
the detached militia, and volunteers, are ordered to Niagara, 
Sackett's Harbour, Ogdensburgh, and Plattsburgh. With 
the detachment of regular troops under Lieut. Col. Fenwick, 
there is some heavy ordnance, ammunition, and intrenching 
tools, which will be immediately, with additional ordnance 
and military stores, sent to Niagara, Sackett's Harbour, and 
Ogdensburgh. I have, also, ordered a considerable number 
ofbatteaux from Schenectady to Niagara and Sackett's 
Harbour, and the construction of suitable scows at the re- 
spective places, including Ogdensburgh, for the transporta- 
tion of ordnance. I hope that Col. Porter will proceed in 
the construction of boats and scows, with all possible des- 
patch. It will be highly gratifying to me to receive intelli- 
gence from you by every mail, and, in case of emergency, 
by express. 

With much consideration, &c. 



From Major General Van Rensselaer to his Excellency Governor 
Tompkins. 

Uead-Q,uarters, Lewiston, August 31, 1812. 
Sir,— 
Presuming that the surrender of General Hull's army has 
been officially announced to your Excellency through the 
proper channel, I shall not enter into any details upon" the 
event so disastrous to our country : its consequence must be 
felt every v/here ; but they are peculiarly distressing upon 



APPENDIX. 35 

these frontiers, both to the citizens, and the little army 
under my command. Alarm pervades the country, and 
distrust among the troops. They are incessantly pressing 
for furloughs, under every possible pretence. Many are 
without shoes; all clamorous for pay. Many are sick. 
Swift's regiment at Black Rock are about one-fourth part 
down. 1 have ordered Doctor Brown to associate Doctor 
Chapin with him, and to examine as to th^ causes producing 
the diseases, the mode of treating them, &c. and to report to 
me their opinion of the best mode of restoring the sick, and 
preserving the health of those who remain well. This duty 
they are now performing. 

Captain Jennings has been tried by a court-martial, and 
found guilty of siich charges as forfeited his commission; 
and I have approved the sentence. The proceedings, in 
form, will soon be forwarded to your Excellency. 

While we are thus growing daily weaker, our enemy is 
growing stronger. They hold a very commanding position 
on the high ground above Queenstown, and they are daily 
strengthening themselves in it, with men and ordnance. In- 
deed, they are fortifying almost every prominent point, from 
Fort Erie, to Fort George. At present we rest upon the 
armistice; but should hostilities be recommenced, I must 
immediately change my position. I receive no reinforce- 
ments of men, no ordnance, or munitions of war. I must 
hope, that I shall not long be left in this situation. 

Two gentlemen, Messrs Johnson and Bascom, came over 
in a flag to the garrison, at Niagara, and the first I knew of 
them they were in my camp. Being satisfied that they were 
American citizens, men of intelligence, and some standing in 
society, I permitted them to pass on, with orders to report 
themselves to your Excellency. 

There is one fact, which though not immediately con- 
nected with my department, I cannot refrain from mention- 
ing ; — the unfortunate soldiers of General Hull's army, who 
marched by my camp on their way to Lower Canada, are 



36 APPENDIX. 

very destitute of clothing. Every consideration would urge 
that some attention should be paid to their condition. 
I have the honour, &c. 

His Excellency Governor Tompkins. 

From Major General Dearborn to Major General Van Rensselaer. 

Head-auarters, Greenbush, Aug. 25, 1812. 

Sir,— 
As soon as practicable after the receipt of this, you will 
please to have the enclosed letter directed to the Command- 
ing Officer of the British forces at Fort George, at Niagara, 
conveyed to him by a flag; and the letter directed to Gen. 
Hull, you will please to have forwarded to him by express, 
with as great despatch as practicable; and at the expiration 
of four days after the letter is delivered to the British Com- 
manding Officer at Fort George, you will consider the tem- 
porary conditional agreement for suspending offensive ope- 
rations between the forces under your command, and the 
British forces in your vicinity, as no longer binding on 
either side ; and you will act accordingly ; and you will 
make every exertion in your power for annoying the enemy, 
as tvell as to guard against any attack from him. Consi- 
derable reinforcements have been sent on from Montreal to 
strengthen their positions in Upper Canada; and I trust 
you will very soon receive snch additional force from this 
State, and from Pennsylvania, as will enable you to pass 
into Canada with safety and effect. A large reinforce- 
ment is on its march under Brig. Gen. Dodge, for Sackett's 
Harbour and Ogdensburgh, as well as for Plattsburgh. I 
hrve ordered thirty batteaux to Niagara, and an equal num- 
ber to Sackett's Harbour, and have directed the building of 
proper scows for the transportation of ordnance. Jf the 
enemy should have detached from Fort George, it may af- 
ford you an opportunity to strike a blow. 
I have the honour, &c. 

P. S. Sir, it will be advisable to wait until the arrival of 



APPENDIX. 37 

Lt. Col. Penwick with the cannon, and stores shall be ren- 
dered certain, within four days, before you send the enclosed 
letter to Fort George. I presume he must arrive before this 
reaches you ; but it may be otherwise. 

(Signed) H. Dearborn. 

Major Gren. Stephen Van Rensselaer. 

From Major General Van Rensselaer to Major General Dearborn. 
Head-Gluarlers, Lewiston, 1st September, 1812. 

Sir,— 

I have just received your letter of the 25th ult. I 
shall ascertain the movements and situation of Lieut. Col. 
Fenwick, with the cannon and stores : and as soon as he can 
be considered safe, I shall terminate the armistice in the 
manner prescribed. 

Upon this occasion, I conceive it a duty I owe to my 
country, to the troops under my command, and to my own 
character, to state, that we are not, on this Frontier, in that 
condition which the approaching crisis will require. My 
force of militia, rank and file, now fit for duty, is six hundred 
and ninety-one, as will appear by the inclosed return ; these 
have to guard a line of thirty-six miles. My sick list is 
more than one hundred. Many of the men are without shoes, 
and all clamorous for pay. Besides, it is a fact that cannot 
be concealed, that the surrender of General Hull's army 
has spread great alarm among the inhabitants on this Fron- 
tier, and 1 every day perceive strong symptoms of distrust 
among the troops. They have seen their countrymen sur- 
rendered witliout a single effort, and marched, prisoners, be- 
fore their eyes. They cannot comprehend it. 

At this hour, I have received no reinforcements of men, 
no supplies of ordnance, tents, nor ammunition. There are 
not ten rounds per man, on the Niagara Frontier ; nor have 
we lead to make cartridges. We are extremely deficient 
of medicine and Flospital stores : of lint and bandage cloth 
we have none, — nor any surgical instruments. Lieut. Col. 

4 



38 APPENDIX. 

Swift's regiment, at Black Rock, and the troops in garrison 
at Niagara, have no tents to take the field ; unless Bloom's 
regiment, and the troops with Lieut. CoL Fenwick have 
tents with them, they cannot be covered. This is a brief 
sketch of our condition. Our enemy are every moment on 
the alert ; they hold a very commanding position on the high 
ground above Queenstown ; and are daily strengthening it, 
with men and ordnance. Indeed, almost every point of any 
importance from Fort Erie to Fort George, is in some state 
of defence. At each Fort on the Lakes, their shipping is 
ready to act. The troops which had been detached from 
this quarter to act against General Hull, have returned and 
may now be concentrated at this point. Before the termina- 
tion of the armistice, I must change my position, and can 
only act on the defensive, until I shall be reinforced with 
troops, well disciplined, and commanded by able officers. 
I am, with respectful consideration, &c. 
Major General Dearborn. 

From Major General Van Rensselaer to His Excellency Governor 
Tompkins. 

Head-Q.uarters, Lewiston, vSeptember 1st, 1812. 
Sir,— 

In the letter, which I yesterday had the honour to 
address to your Excellency, I mentioned the general alarm 
which the surrender of General Hull's army had spread 
through the Frontiers. 

The inhabitants every where think themselves in danger. 
This is particularly the case in the County of Chautauque ; 
in consequence of representations made to me by the inhab- 
itants of that county, I had on the 27th ult. issued an or- 
der to Lieut. Col. John Mc Mahon, to order into service two 
full companies of his regiment for the protection of the in- 
habitants. This morning again, I have been called upon by 
Captains Baldwin and Mack, gentlemen of respectability, 
from that county, very earnestly soliciting, in behalf of the 



APPENDIX. 



39 



inhabitants, still further force for their protection, and I have 
issued another order to Lieut. Col. Me Mahon, to detach one 
captain, two sergeants, two corporals, and twenty-six pri- 
vates more, for the service aforesaid, until your Excellency's 
pleasure can be known on the subject. 

September 2d, 4 o'clock, P. M. 

Col. Fenwick has not yet arrived at Fort Niagara, and 
of course, I have not delivered the letter I yesterday re- 
ceived from Major General Dearborn, by express. Four or 
five vessels have just arrived at Fort George, it is supposed 
with reinforcements. Our enemies appear to be on the alert 
at every point. 

This morning Lieut. Branch and about forty men arrived 
here, with two pieces of flying artillery ; also, at the same 
time, Capt. Camp, with about twenty-five dragoons. The 
company lately under the command of Captain Jennings, in 
Lieut. Col Swift's Regiment, had become so clamorous for 
pay, and contended so strenuously that their time had ex- 
pired, that I have ordered them to be dismissed, in the opinion 
that this would meet your Excellency's approbation, I was 
strengthened by learning from Brigadier General Brown, 
that Lieut. Col. Bellinger's regiment, who were on the same 
standing in service, at Sackett's Harbour, have been dis- 
charged by your order. 

I have the honour &c. 

His Excellency Governor Tompkins. 

Head-Cluarters, Lewiston, 2d September, 1812. 

GENERAL ORDERS. 

Sir,— 

Major General Van Rensselaer directs that you land 
the troops, cannon, and stores, under your command, at the 
Four Mile Creek ; and make every military preparation to 
protect them, and to give him immediate information of your 

arrival by express. 

By order, 

Sol. Van Rensselaer, Aid-de-camp. 

Lieut. Col. Fenwick, Light Artillery, 



40 APPENDIX. 

Lieutenant Colonel Fen wick to Major General Van Rensselaer. 
Four Mile Creek, September 3, 1812, 
Sir,— - 

Agreeable to your instructions,* I am landing the ord- 
nance and stores at this place. They are of great impor- 
tance, and I do not think them safe in this position. The 
powder I must keep on board, as it will sustain injury by be- 
ing taken out. I pray you, sir, to assist me so soon as pos- 
sible, and receive the assurance of my consideration and 
respect. 

(Signed) John R. Fenwick, 

Lieut. Col. Light Artillery. 

Colonel Sol. Van Rensselaer to Lieutenant Colonel Fenwick. 

Head-Gluarters, Lewiston, September 3, 1812. 
Sir,— 

Major General Van Rensselaer has ordered the Quar- 
ter Master to proceed immediately to the Four Mile Creek, 
and furnish you with the necessary transportation for the 
cannon and military stores in your charge ; and has also 
detached one captain, one subaltern, and forty men to as- 
sist you in their removal and protection to this place. The 
troops and wagons will reach you this evening. 
I have the honour, &c. 

(Signed) S. V. Ren. A. D. C. 
Lieut. Col. Fenwick, Four Mile Creek. 

Fxom Major Gen. Dearborn to Major Gen. Van Rensselaer. 

Head-CLuarters, Greenbush, 1st Sept., 1812. 
Major Gen. Stephen Van Rensselaer. 

I received your letter of the 25th ult. this morning, 
enclosing a communication from Capt. Leonard. — The fall 

* An express had been sent to Col. Fenwick, to land at Four Mile 
Creek. This precaution was taken lest the Armistice might have been 
terminated below, or some accident might throw the cargo into the 
hands of the enemy. No copy was kept of the note to Col. Fenwick. 



APPENDIX. 



41 



of Gen. Hull, and the army under his command, is as morti- 
fying as it was unexpected. We must endeavour to redeem 
our honour by increasing our exertions. In addition to the 
militia detachments ordered from this State, and two thou- 
sand ordered from the north-western part of Pennsylvania 
to Niagara; three regiments of new-raised troops of the ar- 
my have been some days on their march towards your post. 
I am forwarding additional supplies of musketry and cannon, 
with forty batteaux to Niagara — a detachment of troops will 
accompany the boats from Oswego. It will be necessary to 
have teams ready to take the stores and boats from a safe 
landing place; and it may be well to order a detachment to 
meet the boats at some distance from Niagara on the shore. 
I hope Lieut. Col. Fenwick, with the troops and stores under 
his command, will have arrived in season. / have no doubt 
hut that you will improve the earliest opportunity for re- 
taliating on the enemy our misfortunes at Detroit. Gen. 
Dodge goes to Sackett's Harbour with a fine force. I have 
detached Gen. Bloomfield with a brigade of regular troops, 
with artillery, &c. to Plattsburgh, and other troops in addi- 
tion to the militia of this State and Vermont will accompany 
or follow him. 

I shall endeavour to draw the reinforcements back from 
Upper Canada to Montreal. 

With great consideration and esteem. 

From Major Gen. Van Rensselaer to Major Gen. Brock. 

Head-Cluarters, Lewiston, Sept. 4lh, 1812. 
Sir,— 

By the articles which I had the honour to conclude 
with Major Gen. Sheaffe on the 2Ist ult., for the government 
of the troops of the United States under my command, and 
his Brittannic Majesty's forces on this frontier, during the 
temporary armistice, it was, among other things, stipulated 
that " the party who shall first receive orders for the renew- 
al of hostilities shall give four days' notice^ computing 

4* 



42 APPENDIX. 

twenty-four hours to each day, before any offensive ope- 
ration shall take place. ^^ 

Having now received orders to terminate the armistice, 
in conformity to the above recited stipulation, I have the 
honour to transmit you this notice, that the armistice will be 
terminated at twelve o'clock, at noon, on Tuesday, the eighth 
day of September, inst. 

I have the honour, &c. 
Major Gen. Isaac Brock, or officer commanding Fort George. 

From Major Gen. Sheaffe to Major Gen. Van Rensselaer. 

Fort George, Sth Sept., 1812. 
Sir,— 

I have the honour of receiving your communication, 
signifying the intention on the part of the United States of 
renewing hostilities, after four days shall have elapsed from 
the period at which the notice was given. Thus declaring 
that the armistice shall termmate at twelve o'clock at noon, 
on the eighth day of this September. 

I have the honour, &c. 

(Signed) R. H. Sheaffe, 
Maj. Gen. H. B, M. forces, commanding, &c. 
Major Gen. Van Rensselaer, commanding frontiers. 

From Major Gen. Dearborn to Major Gen. Van Rensselaer. 

Head-auarters, Greenbush, Sept. 2d, 1812. 
Major Gen. Stephen Van Rensselaer, 
SSir, — 

I send this by express for the purpose of putting you 
on your guard against an attack, that 1 have reason to ap- 
prehend is intended by the enemy. A considerable force 
has lately passed into Upper Canada, for the obvious pur- 
pose of striking not only at Detroit, but at other posts. 
From the number of troops which have left Montreal 
for Upper Canada, I am not without fear that attempts will 
be speedily made, to reduce you and your forces to the 
mortifying situation of Gen. Hull and his army. If such an 



APPENDIX. 43 

attempt of the enemy should be made, previous to the arri- 
val of the principal part of the troops destined to Niagara, it 
will be necessary for you to be prepared for all events; and 
to be prepared to make good a secure retreat as the last 
resoi't. I hope, however, you will not be reduced to the 
mortifying alternative of falling back. But from the unfor- 
tunate event at Detroit, we may expect great exertions on 
the part of the enemy ; and as far as the means in our power 
will admit, we, I trust, shall be at least equally vigilant and 
active. 

I am, sir, with high consideration and esteem, &c. 

P. S, The Frigate Guerriere has been captured and sunk 
by the U. S. Frigate Constitution, Capt. Hull. 

From Major Gen. Van Rensselaer to Major Gen. Dearborn. 

Head-Cluarters, Lewiston, 5th Sept., 1812.— 7, P. M. 
Sir,— 

The express has just arrived with your letter of the 
2d inst. I thank you for the information which your letter 
contains, and for suggesting precautions against a disaster, 
which would deeply implicate the honour of my country, the 
fate of the little army under my command, and my own 
character. 

Every exertion which the small force I command can 
make, to avoid either a surprise or defeat, will be attempted. 
So small and scattered has been my little band, and so de- 
pressed by tho fate of Gen. Hull, that every movement has 
been heavy. But within forty-eight hours, the scene seems 
to have changed a little for the better. — Lieut. Col. Fen- 
wick has arrived safe, with the cannon and stores. To 
avoid any possible casualty, I ordered them landed at the 
Four Mile Creek, a little below Fort Niagara, and from 
thence they have been brought by land : the boats have re- 
turned. A battalion of about seventy riflemen, which on the 
16th ult. I had ordered from Oswego, has this day arrived 
here. 



44 APPENDllC. 

I have determined, with the concurrence of Lieut. Col. 
Fenwick's opinion, to throw up a strong battery on this side 
of Fort Niagara, on the bank of the river, and there place 
the four eighteen pounders. With this view I went this 
morning on the spot, and we have, broke ground. This 
evening Lieut. Col. Fenwick and Capt. Leonard are with 
me. I understand that our movement has produced great 
activity at Fort George. The enemy have immediately 
commenced some new works. It is my intention to support 
the battery near Fort Niagara, with as strong a camp as I 
am able, and to cut a road back of it for greater safety, in 
case I should be hard pressed. 

Agreeably to your instructions I waited for the safety of 
Lieut. Col. Fenwick, the cannon, and stores, before I gave 
the notice necessary to terminate the armistice, conformably 
to the stipulations between Major Gen. Sheaffe and myself 
The notice was delivered at Fort George yesterday before 
noon, and by it the armistice will be terminated at 12 o'clock 
at noon, on the 8th inst. This day Major Gen. Sheaffe has 
acknowledged the receipt of my notice. My present camp 
being within the reach of the enemy's guns, on the high 
grounds in Queenstovvn, I have determined to quit. I had 
designated a spot for my new encampment about one mile 
from the river, on the ridge road ; but I may reconsider this 
subject. It might be expected, from my situation, that I 
could with facility obtain correct information of the enemy's 
force and movements in this vicinity ; but so is not the fact. 
Every effort for that purpose is absolutely vain. I can only 
obtain information too general to calculate upon. It is 
generally believed that the enemy are concentrating their 
forces to this neighbourhood ; but what their numbers are, 
is to me wholly unknown. — They appear to be on the alert. 

At Fort Niagara we have (concealed) two thirteen and 
a half inch brass mortars, and four eight and a half inch how- 
itzers. Capt. Leonard has this evening handed me a memo- 
randum of articles that in his opinion, which I respect, are 



APPENDIX. 



45 



very much wanted for these pieces, and some others, as 
follows : — 

400 shells for the mortars. 

1603 cannister and grape shot for the howitzers. 
16 dozen port-fires — harness complete for tlie mortars 
and howitzers — also wanted, harness for the 6 six 
pounders now at Fort Niagara. 
With the information of which you are possessed, relative 
to my force and that of the enemy, I presume you cannot 
expect that I shall, immediately, attempt to act offerrdively. 
I shall endeavour to watch the motions of the enemy as far 
as possible, and so dispose my little force as to avoid a sur- 
prise, or risking too much with raw troops in case the ene- 
my should cross to attack me: — the surrender of Gen. Hull's 
army has put it in the power of the enemy to turn a strong 
force, to act either defensively or offensively against me. My 
situation requires arduous duty : it may be critical ; but I 
shall meet events in that manner which my judgment shall 
dictate as most prudent and safe, and to the utmost of my 
power discharge my duty. 

The conduct of Capt. Hull in the Constitution was gallant 
indeed, and has justified the high expectations we have all 
entertained of our navy, and the brave men who com- 
mand it. 

I have the honour to be, sir, 

witk respect and consideration, &c. 
Major Gen. Dearborn. 

Major General Van Rensselaer to Major General Dearborn. 

Head Uuarters, Lewiston, 8lh Sept., 1812. 
Sir,— 

I have this day received your two letters of the 1 st in- 
stant, and have made the communication you requested to 
the Contractor. 

No occurrence of importance has taken place since I 
wrote you on the 5th, by your express. I have, yesterday, 



46 



APPENDIX. 



removed my camp to the Ridge Road, as I proposed. The 
battery near Fort Niagara is fast progressing, also the cut- 
ting of the back road, mentioned in my last letter. The 
enemy appear to be very active ; but whether their prepa- 
rations are for offensive, or defensive operations, is impossi- 
ble for me to determine. 

The night before last two men came over from Canada, 
but the information they give is of very little consequence : 
indeed, the character of the men would not give much 
weight to any thing they might say. They state that Gen. 
Brock had returned from York to Fort George — that 1500 
militia were ordered for Fort George yesterday — some 
troops have this day passed up through Queenstown. Not 
knowing what the termination of the armistice might pro- 
duce, I have taken every precaution in my power to meet 
any attempt the enemy might make. But it is now five 
o'clock, and I neither see nor hear of any movements. Ge- 
neral VVadsvvorth and Col. Van Rensselaer have been the 
whole day at Niagara. Should they return before the mail 
closes, and have any thing of importance to communicate, I 
shall add it in a postscript. 

I am, sir, with great respect. 

Major Gen. Deai-born. 

Memorandum. — The following note was received on 
the 8th of September : — • 

Lt. Col. Fen wick to Maj. Gen. Van Rensselaer. 
Sir,- 

I am induced to believe from every observation I have 
vigilantly made, that the enemy is prepared and ready for 
an attack. They are so with shipping and boats, which to- 
day brought them a reinforcement of men and stores. Our 
patrole are very lax in their duty. The work erecting can- 
not be finished in time, without additional strength. When 
finished, it is not secure without being strongly covered in 
the rear; for we have nothing to prevent their landing; 



AFPENDir- 47 

and they can, in that case, carry the work. The regular 
force should be concentrated, and organized. Our stores 
should be removed; they are not in safety; for, if they 
threw over two hundred men, they can carry the Fort. 
This I beg your consideration to, as your strength is six 
miles off, and four hour's time. I have no means of express 
at my command. 

John R. Fenwick, Lt. Col. &c. 

From Lt. Col. John R. Fenwick to Maj. Gen. Van Rensselaer. 

Fort Niagara, Sept. 10th, 1812. 
Sir,— 

Fatigued and harassed as the troops have been, I 
really do not think our situation a safe one. I submit to 
your judgment whether the troops should not be concen- 
trated : as they are all young and undiscipHned, they may 
be cut up in detail. The defence of this place is precarious, 
outside of the store-house. I apprehend nothing but sur- 
prise ! We should be then prepared to act in force, and in 
any given point. The Contractor is very inattentive. Our 
men are extremely dissatisfied. The enemy has erected 
another battery. I ordered the light artillery down. They 
called in their fatigue parties, and prepared for attack — the 
Indians moving in every direction. The movement puzzles 
them; and I am pleased at giving them so much trouble. 
I hope 1 shall have the honour of a visit from you to- 
morrow. 

I salute you, General, with consideration and respect, 

John R. Fenwick, Lt. Col. Lt. Art. 
Major General Van Rensselaer. 

From Maj. Gen. Van Rensselaer to Maj. Gen. Dearborn. 

Head-Gluarters, Lewiston, 10th Sept., 1812. 
Sir,— 
When I had the honour of receiving your communication 



48 APPENDIX. 

of the 1st inst., acquainting me of the dispositions you ai*© 
making to reinforce me upon this frontier with men, cannon, 
musketry, stores, etc., my attention was immediately ar- 
rested hy the proposition of sending them from Oswego to 
Niagara, or, indeed, any part of that distance, by water. It 
will be recollected that the passage of Lt. Col. Fenwick with 
boats, was rendered safe, under a clause of the agreement 
for the observance of the armistice. But, upon the receipt 
of your letter, my own opinion v/as against risking any 
thing, hereafter, along that shore by water ; but 1 wished 
further information on the subject before I should advise 
you. The opinions of others whom I have advised with on 
this subject, and who are competent judges, fully accord 
with my own, that it would be very hazardous for the bat- 
teaux to attempt coming from Oswego to Niagara in the 
very face of our active enemy, having command of the 
water. The batteaux might, and probably would, have 
some days of head wind ; and, in such case, it would be 
next to impossible that they should escape the observation of 
the enemy : and, when once discovered, they would un- 
doubtedly be attacked in some place where the landing 
could be effected with most difficulty. My opinion is fur- 
ther strengthened by some late movements of the enemy. 
The day after the termination of the armistice, the Royal 
George, and another armed vessel, chased some vessels re- 
turning from Niagara to Oswego, into the Genesee river, 
and fired a few shot. This has excited an alarm among 
the inhabitants ; and, according to the custom prevailing on 
the whole frontier, they have sent a deputation to me pray- 
ing protection. I have ordered them some ammunition ; I 
can do no more. I am so entirely convinced that the car- 
goes of the batteaux will be in danger on the passage from 
Oswego to Niagara, that I shall send an express to Three 
River Point, to have the batteaux come up to Cayuga 
Bridge, and there land their cargoes, to be transported by 



APPENDIX. 49 

land to this place.* I shall bestow further consideration on 
this subject. 

Believing that the best use which I can make of the old 
stone mess-house at Niagara, is to convert it into a battery, 
I have ordered the roof to be taken off, the walls above the 
upper floor to be strengthened by embankments of earth on the 
inner side, and two twelve-pounders, and one howitzer 
mounted in that battery. It is high, and may, perhaps, 
avail us something. I expect it will be prepared in this 
manner, in a day or two. I was yesterday there, and the 
roof was nearly taken down. 

I have the honour to be, sir, with great consideration. 

Wajoi- General Dearborn. 

Major General Van Rensselaer to Lieutenant Colonel Fenwick, 
commanding Niagara. 

Head-Q,uarters, Lewiston, 15th September, 1812. 
Sir,— 

I have this moment received your note of this date. 
It is a fact too true, that many of the arms both here, and 
at the garrison are not fit for use. The armourers are here, 
busily engaged ; nevertheless I send you one of them. 
Please to order the line of sentries extended up the river as 
far as you deem expedient. 

It seems to be impossible to obtain grain for our horses. 
I have this day issued an order to the Quarter Master Gen- 
eral, as to forage; and shall make every effort in my power, 
to get a supply. General Brock will, undoubtedly, make 
every effort; let us employ every moment in making the 
best possible dispositions, to receive him, should he attempt 
an attack. As to the salt, the teams and men were left be- 
hind for the express purpose o[ removing it. If the service 

+ Perhaps some precautions may be adopted so as to get round the 
batteaux to the Eighteen-Mile Creek, or to some near position on the 
lake shore, from whence they may be drawn over land to this place. 

5 



50 APPENDIX. 

requires any more men for fatigue I will send them imme- 
diately. 

With consideration and respect. 

Lieut. Col. Fenwick, Light Artillery commanding Niagara. 

Major General Van Rensselaer to his Excellency Governor 
Tompkins. 

Head-Gluarters, Lewiston, loth September, 1812. 

Sir,— 

Agreeably to the instructions contained in your Ex- 
cellency's last letter of the 14th ult, I have endeavoured to 
keep Major General Dearborn fully advised of all my move- 
ments and operations, since that time, and to my letters trans- 
mitted to him, I beg leave to refer your Excellency for par- 
ticulars. If the little army under my command has not yet 
achieved any thing brilliant, I endeavour to console myself 
%rith the belief, that we have not yet suffered any disgrace. 
My force is yet small — about sixteen hundred militia; of 
course the necessary service renders the duty of the troops 
very severe. They, however, endure it with as much pa- 
tience, as could be expected from men in their situation. 
Many of them destitute of shoes, and indeed of such clothing 
as is necessary for the approaching season ; and they are 
all extremely clamorous for their pay. Some money must 
be furnished for the troops in a very short time, or the con- 
sequences of omitting it will seriously affect the service, and 
at least render every movement heavy. 

Since my first arrival on this frontier, I have found myself 
much embarrassed with the situation of Fort Niagara. To 
attempt defending it with the ordnance I found here, I con- 
sidered idle : and after the return of General Brock from 
Detroit, I had great reason to believe that he could command 
a competent force to carry the garrison, should he attack 
it. But apprehending the very serious consequences which 
must inevitably result from abandoning the Fort altogether, 
I took the precaution of removing the most valuable stores, 



APPENDIX. 51 

and determined to risk events, until Lieut. Col. Fenwick 
should arrive, when I might avail myself of his opinion, at 
least, and of the ordnance he had with him, should it be 
deemed advisable to attempt holding the garrison. By suspend- 
ing the notice for terminating the Armistice, Lieut. Col. Fen- 
wick arrived safe with the cannon and stores, under his charge, 
at Four Mile Creek. Fort Niagara became one of the first 
subjects of deliberation, and it was determined to attempt 
maintaining it. For this purpose it was deemed expedient to 
remove the roof of the old stone mess-house, and convert 
the upper story into a battery, to be mounted with two twelve 
pounders, and a howitzer. I also determined to throw up a 
strong battery on the bank of the river about a mile above 
the garrison ; nearly opposite the main battery on the Cana- 
da shore, and there mount three eighteen pounders. 

As the enemy can rake the river-road, from this to the 
garrison, even with musketry, I determined to cut a road for 
communication between my camp and the garrison, back in 
the woods, and, cut off the reach of the enemy's fire ; these 
have been the main objecis of our fatigue for some days past, 
and are all of them nearly completed. These operations 
have produced great activity at Fort George; no sooner 
were our works commenced than the enemy began opposing 
batteries. Their force is certainly very respectable, and 
constantly employed. Whether the enemy will attack Niaga- 
ra or not, is impossible for me to say. There are some 
very imperious considerations to urge them to it. Newark 
is a very considerable village ; the enemy have there, valua- 
ble barracks and accommodations for winter quarters; and 
whatever might be the final result of a bombardment, the 
enemy must inevitably suffer very considerably. My pre- 
sent opinion is, that I had better attempt to maintain the gar- 
rison, than to risk the consequences of abandoning it. 

Liable as I am to an attack from the enemy at any hour, 
and my troops worn down with fatigue, I have resorted to a 
measure which, perhaps, exceeds the letter of my orders; 



APPENDIX. 



yet considering that not only the tranquillity of this frontier, 
but possibly the fate of my little army may be at stake; and 
having been advised by Major General Dearborn to adopt 
every measuse of precaution, against a surprise from a 
strong force which he had reason to believe the enemy were 
directing against me; I have ordered a detachment of five 
hundred men from Brigadier General Hopliin's brigade, and 
some companies of the detachment have actually marched. 
I wish to be favoured with your excellency's early instruc- 
tions on this subject; as at present I only consider these 
troops ordered into service during your pleasure. 

From a source not to be doubted, I learn that the enemy 
are forwarding very large supplies of arms and military 
stores to Upper Canada: one hundred loaded boats have 
lately come up the St. Lawrence ; also two regiments are 
on their way to Upper Canada. 

Having been advised by Major General Dearborn that 
forty batteaux, with cargoes for the use of tiie army on this 
Frontier, were on their way from Schenectady to Niagara, 
by the way of Oswego, I have advised him of the danger 
to be apprehended in their voyage from Oswego to Niagara : 
as I am clearly of opinion from the best information, that 
that passage ought not to be attempted, by the boats with 
their cargoes ; and fearing that my desjnitch might not reach 
Major General Dearborn in season for him to act, I have by 
express, ordered the commanding officer of the batteaux, to 
stop at Three River Point, come up to Cayuga Bridge — land, 
and store the cargoes — and then go down to Oswego, adopt 
every precaution to avoid capture, and proceed with all pos- 
sible despatch, to the Eighteen Mile Creek. I have advised 
the Quarter Master of this arrangement, and he has deputed 
a person to receive the cargoes of the batteaux, and furnish 
the necessary transportation to Black Rock. 

The alarm which lutel)' took place in the County of Onta- 
rio, by the enemy's ships chasing some vessels into the 
mouth of the Genesee river, has induced Judge Atwater to 



APPENDIX. 



53 



make a communication to me of a very unpleasant nature. 
Afier stating the great zeal with which the militia turned out, 
he says, " But, sir, 1 lament when I tell you, that neither 
arms, nor ammunition are provided for those brave men : no, 
not one musket to six men. that would cheerfully risk their 
lives, in defence of their country." He says, they " are des- 
titute of arms and ammunition ; they are neither of them to 
be purchased in the country." 

I have the honour, &c. 
His Excellency Governor Tompkins. 

Extract of a letter from his Excellency Governor Tompkins to Major 
General Van Rensselaer. 

Albany, September 9th, 1812. 
Dear sir, — 

Your various communications have come to hand, the 
two last while I was in New- York. My return from that 
city was expedited by the news of Hull's discomfiture. Pre- 
viously to my leaving this place for New-York, I had ordered 
out two regiments, in addition to Bloom's, to reinforce you, 
but their march has been retarded by circumstances, over 
which I had no control. They are now directed to move 
on with the utmost expedition. Until reinforcements arrive 
I am sensible of the delicacy of your situation- Your pro- 
ceedings hitherto, in concentrating in one place, and disci- 
plining a large body of your troops, changing your encamp- 
ments, your disposition of the despatch relative to the ter- 
mination of the Armistice, and every other official act has 
met my entire approbation, and will receive that of your 
fellow-citizens generally. I pray God you may be able to 
maintain your post, until reinforcements shall arrive. 

His Excellency Governor Tompkins to Major General Van Rens- 
selaer. Extract from. 

Albany, September 9th, 1812. 

The government has at length been awakened to its 
5* 



S4" APPENDIX. 

duty, with respect to the command of the Lakes. The 
most unbounded authority has been given to Captain 
Chauncy for that purpose, and he will be with you soon. 
Forty ship carpenters came up with me, in the last steam- 
boat, and have gone on Westward. Marines and seamen, 
will be on as soon as vessels and gun-boats are ready. 

A large supply of ordnance of every description, is now 
on its way from New-York. The orders embrace Erie as 
well as Ontario. I despatched an express for Captain 
Chauncy, on that subject from New-York, on Friday even- 
mg to Captain Woolsey. The despatches have returned 
this morning, and have gone down by express. Should you, 
my dear General, be able to maintain your position a short 
time, these arrangements for the Lakes, and the reinforce- 
ments, will place you in a situation of defiance. To enable 
you so to do more effectually, the militia of every descrip- 
tion in the counties above mentioned are placed at your dis- 
posal, and you may instantly call upon all, or any portion of 
them, under the act of 1795, (enclosed) or under the militia 
law of this state, and I will approve, confirm, and maintain 
your proceedings. The Quarter Master General of the 
state is ordered by me into regular service, and is now, in 
every respect subject to your directions. 1 have remitted 
him ten thousand dollars, by Major Noon. 

You have probably felt hurt at the unfrequency of my 
answers to your communications : but when I inform you 
that I have no private secretary here, that the adjutant gen- 
eral is in declining health, and that none of my staff or aids 
are in service, or with me, though the latter have volunteered 
their services without pay, and have been with me occasion- 
ally, at their own expense, and when I inform you further, 
that the drudgery of attending to a variety of details in ren- 
dezvousing, supplying equipage, and paying troops, &c. de- 
volves upon me, or must remain unattended to, I trust you 
will extend great charity to my apparent inattention to your 
mmunications. 



APPENDIX. 



55 



Receive, dear general, an assurance of my great consider- 
tion and sincere esteem. 

Major General Van Rensselaer. 

EXTRACT. 
From Major General Dearborn lo Major General Van Rensselaer. 
Head-Gluarters, Greenbush, Sept. 10th, 1812. 
Major General Van Rensselaer. 
Sir,— 

Your letter of the 7th, by the returning express, reach- 
ed us at 8 o'clock last evening. The safe arrival of Lieut. 
Col. Fenwick, with the troops, cannon, and stores, has re- 
lieved me from some anxiety. / am satisfied that the 
abandonment of the Old Fort is a prudent measure ; and I 
have the fullest confidence that, whatever relates to your 
actual command, will be performed in the manner that the 
good of the service, and the best interests of the i country 
demand. 

From Major General Van Rensselaer to His Excellency Governor 

Tompkins. 

EXTRACT FROM. 

Head-Cluarters, Lewiston, 2d Sept., 1812. 
Sir,— 

Since I had the honour to address your Excellency and 

General Dearborn, on the 1 7th inst.,* nothing of very great 

importance has taken place. The position of the army is 

still the same, guarding with great vigilance, as far as our 

force will admit, every point accessible by the enemy. On 

the night of the 20th, all the ships which the enemy have 

on Lake Ontario, were anchored in the mouth of Niagara 

River. What was the object of this movement, I know not, 

unless it was to avoid the violence of a most tremendous 

storm which we have lately had, in which our Troops have 

suffered much. By the great violence of the wind, many 

tents were blown over; my own marque, bed, and all, was 

completely deluged. My morning report of sick is 149. 

Colonel Van Rensselaer went, yesterday, to Fort George, to 

* Both inserted in tlie narrative. 



56 APPENDIX. 

carry my answer to a communication I had received from 
General Brock, relative to a firing between our sentinels, by 
which one man on the Canada shore was killed. There 
was no General Officer at Fort George, yesterday ; and the 
ships were all gone. 

From Major General Dearborn to Major General Van Rensselaer. 

Head-Gluarters, Grcenbush, Sept. 17th, 1812. 
Dear Sir, — 

Your letter of the 8th was this day received. I have 
ordered two regiments from this camp, and two companies 
of artillery for Niagara. When they arrive with the re- 
gular troops and militia, from the Southward, and such 
additional numbers of militia, as I reckon upon from this 
state, the aggregate force will, I presume, amount to up- 
wards of six thousand. It is intended to have a force 
sufficient to enable you to act with effect, although late. Bri- 
gadier General Smith will leave this place to-morrow, to 
take command of his Brigade of regular troops, when they 
arrive. I persuade myself that you will not, under your 
present circumstances, risk more than prudence will justify ; 
and that, of course, you will be prepared, in case you are 
pushed, to fall back, so as not to hazard an action on very 
unequal footing. If the enemy should make an attempt on 
you, his endeavour will undoubtedly be to cut off your re- 
treat by light parties and Indians. You will excuse my 
repeated cautions ; but from the best information I have 
received, I am induced to fear that an attempt will be made 
on your post before sufficient reinforcemnts will reach you. 
This will be conveyed by a safe hand, and in confidence. 

Yours, with respect and esteem. 
Major General Van Rensselaer. 

From Major General Van Rensselaer to Maj. General Dearborn. 
Head-auarters, Lewiston, Sept. 27ih, 1812. 
Sir,- 

By Captain Dox, who arrived in camp yesterday, I 



APPENDIX. 67 

received your letter of the 17th inst., and I can assure you, 
it is consoHng to learn that I shall soon be partially relieved 
from that severe suspense and solicitude which have, for 
some weeks past, been inseparably connected with my si- 
tuation. In the view of those important interests which I 
considered to be at stake, it required much deliberation, to 
decide on the proper course to be pursued, and when that 
course was determined, in the manner which I have before 
stated to you, it required new efforts, by night and day, to 
dispose my small force to meet events in such manner, as to 
justify the course adopted. But, as yet, I am satisfied of 
the correctness of the decision : and, although I have acquired 
nothing, I have surrendered nothing. 

From the various accounts I have received, we must, I 
think, in a few days be able to act, at least, on the defensive, 
with better prospects. 

Lieut. Colonel Boesler has arrived, and, by him, I learn 
that three regiments will soon arrive. But I am mortified 
to understand, by a letter from Col. Winder, that the ag- 
gregate of the troops will be but about 900 men, and that 
his regiment is entirely without cloth clothing, which is 
indispensable for them in the field at this season. 

The enemy continue their operations with great activity 
fortifying their camp, at Fort George, in every direction. 
Seven of the 24 pounders taken, at Detroit, and there 
mounted, part on traveUing carriages. 

Notwithstanding the most positive orders on both sides, 
we are constantly troubled with the warfare of sentries. 
By their firings across the river, one man on each side has 
fallen, within the past week. It is next to impossible, to 
keep our guards sufficiently vigilant on their posts. I pre- 
sume. His Excellency, Governor Tompkins, has shown you 
an extract of a letter which 1 lately forwarded him, relative 
to the strength of the enemy, in the rear of Fort Erie. 
Captain Gibson has arrived. I presume, Lieut Elliott of 
the navy has apprised you of his arrangements ; the ves- 



58 APPENDIX. 

sels had escaped from Genesee River to Oswego. He is 
now, with fifteen of his men at Buffalo. More ordnance seems 
indispensable for our future operations. 

P. S. As the post at Sackett's Harbour is within my com- 
mand, I take the hberty of suggesting for your consideration 
the propriety of continuing so many troops — about sixteen hun- 
dred — there. While the enemy hold command of the Lake, 
Sackett's Harbour is not a point from which a descent upon 
Canada can be made. We are not to apprehend general 
invasion, at every point ; and the village, at that place, is 
certainly not of importance in proportion to the force which 
guards it. I know of no consideration which ought to claim 
more than a regiment of troops at that Post, to man the bat- 
tery, and guard the Harbour. In my opinion, every con- 
sideration, connected with the general interest of the service 
dictates, that part of the troops at Sacketts Harbour should 
be ordered immediately to this station. 

I am, sir, with respect, &c. 
Major General Dearborn. 

From Major General Van Rensselaer to Major General Dearborn. 

Head-Quarters, Leiviston, 28th Aug., 1812. 

Sir,— 

By the mail of this day I received your letter of the 
21st inst. I had hoped that his excellency Gov. Tompkins 
might have detailed to you the condition of the troops under 
my command on this frontier; and also the ordnance, &c. 
at my command. The whole number of mihtia on this fron- 
tier is less than eight hundred; more than one hundred on 
the sick list : many without shoes, and otherwise illy pre- 
pared for offensive operations. 1 have only five or six 
pieces of ordnance : none larger than six pounders. 

After having satisfied myself of the strength and condi- 
tion of the enemy, I was fully convinced that however impe- 
rious the considerations which urged an immediate descent 



APPENDIX. 69 

upon Canada, that the result must be unfavourable. I there- 
fore adopted the plan of concentrating my forces scattered 
on this line, and calling in such further reinforcements as 
might enable me to act. But the face of things is now 
wholly changed by the incomprehensible disaster of Gen. 
Hull's army. Within forty-eight hours past Gen. Hull, and 
a considerable portion of his regulars, have been marched 
through Queenstown, in fair view of my camp. The ef- 
fects produced by this event are such as you will readily 
imagine. I understand that Gen. Hull and his troops are 
now embarking at Fort George, probably for Montreal. 

I wait with solicitude to learn the result of our Govern- 
ment's deliberation on the armistice; in the mean time, 
adopting such measures as I must pursue, if a recommence- 
ment of hostilities shall take place. 

I shall immediately apprise Gen. Porter of your instruc- 
tions respecting boats. 

I have the honour, &c. 
Major Gen. Dearborn. 

From Major General Dearborn to Major General Van Rensselaer. 
Head-Cluarters, Greenbush, Sept. 26ih, 1812. 
Major General Van Rensselaer, 
Sir, — 

Your letter of the 17th inst. was not received until 
this morning. Although I had taken as early measures as 
circumstances admitted of, for having your post strongly 
reinforced, I have been disappointed as to the time of the 
actual arrival of the different corps at their places of desti- 
nation ; and also in regard to the transportation of military 
stores to your camp. A strange fatality seems to have per- 
vaded the whole arrangements. Ample reinforcements of 
troops and supplies of stores are on their way, but 1 fear 
their arrival will be too late to enable you to maintain your 
position. I had hoped from your former letter, that the old 
fort had been abandoned, and the stores removed to a place 



60 APPENDIX* 

of more security. I fear it will, in case of an attack from a 
superior force, be a trap for the garrison that may he 
placed in it. If this should reach you previous to the ene- 
my's movement against you, I must take the liberty of advis- 
ing to such a concentration of 3^our force, and such ar- 
rangements for the safety of the principal military stores, 
bouts, &c., as will enable you, in the last resort, to risk no 
more than shall be absolutely necessary. I have requested 
the Quarter Master General to send on a deputy quarter- 
master with funds, and capacity for furnishing whatever 
may be necessary in his line. By putting an the best face 
that your situation admits, the enemy may be induced to 
delay an attack until you will be able to meet him, and 
carry the war into Canada. At all events, we must calcu- 
late on possessing Upper Canada before winter sets in. 
Gen. Harrison will, I am assured, enter Canada, by Detroit, 
with not less than from six to seven thousand men, exclu- 
sive of the troops necessary for guarding the frontier against 
Indian depredations. The force at Sackett's Harbour, and 
that vicinity, is over two thousand, including an old com- 
pany of regular artillery, and a large company of old rifle- 
men. I have great confidence in the exertions now in ope- 
ration in the navy department on Lake Ontario. In fact, we 
have nothing to fear, and much to hope as to the ultimate 
success of measures now in operation with a view to Upper 
Canada ; but much may immediately depend on what may 
happen at your post. 

Your's with high respect and consideration. 

Lieut. Totten, of ihe Engineers, toMojor General Van Rensselaer. 

Fort Niagara, October 5th, 1812. 

Sir,— 

I beg leave to lay before you the following few ob- 
servations on the works of this place. 

The form of Fort Niagara, with the exception of its east 



APPENDIX. 61 

front, Is irregular, being adapted to the brow of the banks ; 
and all its faces, with the same exception, are only musket 
proof Lying as it does, under the command of the English 
Fort George, no defence can be expected from it against a 
cannonade ; and it might even be prudent for the greater 
security of the garrison, if such an event is to be appre- 
hended, to cut down the pickets on the sides exposed. It 
will certainly be unwise to attempt making ourselves equal to 
the enemy in batteries, for we have but few pieces of ord- 
nance, and I believe no means of procuring more. Such 
works would only cause a useless expense of time and 
labour. But if this post should be conceived (as I appre- 
hend it will) important to cover a landing on the English 
shore — to protect a retreat, and to command the entrance of 
the river, we cannot too soon make the commencement of a 
considerable battery. I will make the necessary plans, and 
a particular representation, if you consider the object of suf- 
ficient importance, and will honour me with a requisition. 

Lieut. Col. Fenwick to Maj. General Van Rensselaer. 
Major General Van Rensselaer. 
Sir,— 

Lieut. Col. Christie is of opinion, after the ammunition 
and ordnance stores are removed, that a subaltern's guard 
will be sufficient for the protection of the boats and the re- 
maining stores ; and that his officers and men, full of ar- 
dour, and anxious to give their country a proof of their pa- 
triotism, by being engaged in the first expedition, induces 
me to solicit, as a favour, that you will allow him and his 
detachment to accompany me this night. I think it essen- 
tial, that, if a blow is struck, it should place us upon such 
ground as will prevent the enemy from giving us a check. 
Col. Christie, after placing a strong guard, and invalids, can 
march with three hundred effectives. As silence will be 
necessary on our march to Lewiston, would you permit two 

6 



62 APPENDIX. 

cavalry to attend me, that the sentries on the road may be 
acquainted with our movements. 
I am, &c. &c. 

From T^Iajor General Van Rensselaer lo Lieut. Col. Fcnwick. 

Head-Gluarters, Lewiston, Oct. lOth, 1S12. 
Sir,— 

I have received your letter of this evening, acquainting 
me that Lieut. Col. Christie is desirous of marching with his 
men to this place, to share in the contemplated movement. 
Upon Col. Christie^s leaving a sufficient guard for the ord- 
nance stores, I most cheerfully grant his request. But it 
will be necessary for him to march by 1 1 o'clock this 
night, to be here in season. 

I am, &c. &c. 
Lieut. Col. Fenwick. 

From Major General Van Rensselaer to Major General Dearborn. 
Head-Q.uarters, Lewiston, October 14th, 1812. 
Sir,— 

As the movements of this army under my command, 
since I had the honour to address you on the 8th, have been 
of a very important character, producing consequences se- 
rious to many individuals, cstabHshing facts actually con- 
nected with the interest of the service, and the safety of the 
army ; and, as I stand prominently responsible for some of 
these consequences, I beg leave to explain to you, sir, and 
through you to my country, the situation and circumstances 
in which I have had to act, and the reasons and motives 
which governed me; and if the result is not all that might 
have been wished, it is such, that, when the whole ground 
shall be viewed, / shall cheerfully submit myself to the 
'udgment of my country. 

In my letter of the Sth instant, I apprised you that the 
crisis in this campaign was rapidly advancing ; and that (to 
repeat the same) " the blow must be soon struck," or all 



APPENDIX. 63 

the toil and expense of the campaign go for nothing, for the 
whole will be tinged with dishonour. 

Under such impressions, I had, on the 5th instant, written 
to Brig. Gen. Smyth of the United States forces, requesting 
an interview with him, Major Gen. Hall, and the com- 
mandants of regiments, for the purpose of conferring on the 
subject of future operations. I wrote Maj. Gen. Hall to the 
same purport. On the iltb, I had received no answer 
from Gen. Smyth; but in a note to me of the 10th, Gen. 
Hall mentioned that Gen. Smyth had not yet then agreed 
upon any day for the consultation. 

In the mean time, the partial success of Lieut. Elliott at 
Black Rock, (of which, hov/ever, I have received no official 
information) began to excite a strong disposition in the 
troops to act. This was expressed to me through various 
channels, in the shape of an alternative, that they must 
have orders to act, or at all hazards they would go home. I 
forbear here commenting upon the obvious consequences, to 
me personally, of longer withholding my orders under such 
circumstances. 

I had a conference with , as to the possibility of 

getting some person to pass over to Canada, and obtain cor- 
rect information. On the morning of the 4th, he wrote to 
me that he had procured the man who bore his letter, to go 
over. Instructions were given him; he passed over — ob- 
tained such information as warranted an immediate attack. 
This was confidentially communicated to several of my first 
officers, and produced great zeal to act; more. especially as 
it might have a controling effect upon the movement at De- 
troit, where it was supposed General Brock had gone with 
all the force he dared spare from the Niagara frontier. The 
best preparations in my power, were therefore made to dis- 
lodge the enemy from the heights of Queenstown, and pos- 
sess ourselves of the village, where the troops might be shel- 
tered from the distressing inclemency of the weather. 

Lieut. Col. Fleming's flying artillery, and a detachment 



64 APPENDIX. 

of regular troops under his command, were ordered up in 
season from Fort Niagara. Orders were also sent to Gen. 
Smyth to send down from Buffalo such detachment from his 
brigade as existing circumstances in that vicinity might war- 
rant. The attack was to be made at 3 o'clock on the morn- 
ing of the 11th, by crossing over in boats from the old ferry, 
opposite the heights. To avoid any embarrassment in 
crossing the river, (which is here a sheet of violent eddies) 
experienced boatmen were procured to take the boats from 
the landing below, to the place of embarkation. Lieut. 
Sim was considered the man of the greatest skill for this 
service; he went ahead, and, in the extreme darkness, pass- 
ed the intended place far up the river, and there, in the most 
extraordinary manner, fastened his boat to the shore, and 
abandoned the detachment. In this front boat he had car- 
ried nearly all the oars which were prepared for the boats. 
In this agonizing dilemma stood officers and men, whose ar- 
dour had not been cooled by exposure through the night, to 
one of the most tremendous north-east storms, which conti- 
nued unabated for twenty-eight hours, and deluged the whole 
camp. Col. Van Rensselaer was to have commanded the 
detachment. 

After this result, I had hoped the patience of the troops 
would have continued, until I could submit the plan sug- 
gested in my letter of the 8th, that I might act under and in 
conformity to the opinion which might then be expressed. 
But my hope was idle ; the previously excited ardour seem- 
ed to have gained new heat from the late miscarriage ; the 
brave were mortified to stop short of their object, and the 
timid thought laurels half won by the attempt. 

On the morning of the 12th, such was the pressure upon 
me from all quarters, that I became satisfied that my refu- 
sal to act might involve me in suspicion, and the service in 
disgrace. 

Lieut. Col. Christie, who had just arrived at the Four 
Mile Creek, had late in the night of the first contem- 



APPENDIX. DO 

plated attack, gallantly offered me his own and his men's 
services; but he got my permission too late. He now again 
came forward, had a conference with Col. Van Rensselaer, 
and begged that he might have the honour of a command 
in the expedition. The arrangement was made. Col. Van 
Rensselaer was to command one column of three hundred 
militia, and Lieut. Col. Christie a column of the same num- 
ber of regular troops. 

Every precaution was now adopted as to boats, and the 
most confidential and experienced men to manage them. At 
an early hour in the night Lieut. Col. Christie marched his 
detachment by the rear road, from Niagara to camp. At 
7 in the evening, Lieut. Col. Stranahan's regiment moved 
from Niagara Falls : at 8 o'clock. Mead's, and at 9, Lieut. 
Col. Bloom's regiment marched from the same place. All 
were in camp in good season. Agreeably to my orders is- 
sued upon this occasion, the two columns were to pass over 
together as sooa as the heights should be carried. Lieut. 
Col. Fenwick's flying artillery v/as to pass over: then 
Major Mullany's detichment of regulars, and the other 
troops to follow in order. 

Col. Van Rensselaer, with great presence of mind, ordered 
his officers to proceed with rapidity, and storm the fort. 
The service was gallantly performed, and the enemy driven 
down the hill in every direction. Soon after this, both par- 
ties were considerably reinforced, and the conflict was re- 
newed in various places. Tvlany of the enerny took shelter 
behind a stone guard-house, where a piece of ordnance v/as 
now briskly served. I ordered the fire of our battery to be 
directed upon the guardhouse; and it was so effectually 
done, that, with eight or ten shot, the fire was silenced. 
The enemy then retreated behind a large store-house ; but, 
in a short time, the rout became general, and the enemy's 
fire was silenced, except from a one gun battery, so far 
down the river as to be out of the reach of our heavy ord- 
nance, and our light pieces could not silence it. A number 

6* 



66 APPENDIX, 

of boats now passed over unannoyed, except by the one un- 
silenced gun. For some time, after I passed over, the vic- 
tory appeared complete; but, in expectation of further at- 
tacks, I was taking measures for fortifying my camp imme- 
diately ; the direction of this service I committed to Lieut. 
Totten of the Engineers. But very soon the enemy were 
reinforced by a detachment of several hundred Indians from 
Chippewa; they commenced a furious attack, but were 
promptly met and routed by the rifle and bayonet. By this 
time, I perceived my troops were embarking very slowly. I 
passed immediately over to accelerate their movements, but, 
to my utter astonishment, I found, that, at the very moment 
when complete victory was in our hands, the ardour of the 
unengaged troops had entirely subsided. I rode in all direc- 
tions ; urged the men by every consideration to pass over — 
but in vain. Lieut. Col. Bloom, wlio had been wounded in 
the action, returned, mounted his horse, and rode through 
the camp, as did also Judge Peck, who happened to be here, 
exhorting the companies to proceed — but all in vain. 

At this time a large reinforcement from Fort George was 
discovered coming up the river. As the battery on the 
hill was considered an important check against their ascend- 
ing the heights, measures were immediately taken to send 
them a fresh supply of ammunition, as I learned there were 
left only twenty shot for the eighteen-pounders. The rein- 
forcements, however, obliqued to the right from the road, 
and formed a junction with the Indians, in the rear of the 
heights. Finding, to my infinite mortification, that no rein- 
forcement would pass over, seeing that another severe con- 
flict must soon commence, and knowing that the brave men 
at the heights were quite exhausted, and nearly out of am- 
munition, all 1 could do, was to send them a fresh supply of 
cartridges. At this critical moment I despatched a note to 
Gen. Wadsworth, acquainting him with our situation, leav- 
ing the course to be pursued much to his own judgment, 
with assurance that, if he thought best to retreat, I would 



APPENDIX. 67 

endeavour to send as many boats as I could command, and 
cover his retreat, by every fire I could safely make ; but the 
boats were dispersed ; many of the boatmen had fled panic 
struck, and but few got off. My note, however, could but 
little more than have reached Gen. W., about 4 o'clock, 
when a most severe and obstinate conflict commenced, and 
continued about half an hour, with a tremendous fire of can- 
non, flying artillery, and musketry. The enemy succeeded 
in repossessing their battery, and gaining advantage on 
every side. The brave men who had gained the victory, ex- 
hausted of strength and ammunition, and grieved at the un- 
pardonable neglect of tlieir fellow-soldiers, gave up the 
conflict. 

I can only add, that the victory was really icon, hut lost 
for the want of a small reinforcement; one-third part of the 
idle men might have saved all. 

I have the honour to be, &c. 
Stephen Van Rensselaer. 
Hon. Yfilliam Eustis, Secretary of War. 

Brigadier General Alexander Smytli to IMajor General Van Rensselaer. 

BuffAlo, 29tli September, 1812. 
Slr,- 

I have been ordered by Major General Dearborn to 
Niagara, to take command of a brigade of the U. S. troops ; 
and directed, on my arrival in the vicinity of your quarters, 
to report myself to you, which I now do. I intended to have 
reported myself personally ; but the conclusions I have 
drawn as to the interests of the service, have determined me 
to stop at this place, for the present. From the description I 
have had of the river below the falls, the view of the shore 
below Fort Erie, and the information received as to the 
preparations of the enemy, I am of opinion that our cross- 
ing should be effected between Fort Erie and Chippewa. 
It has, therefore, seemed to me proper to encamp the U. S. 
troops near Buffalo, there to prepare for offensive operations. 



68 APPENDIX. 

Your instructions, or better information, may decide you to 
give me different orders, which I will await. 
I have the honour, &c. 

Major General Van Rensselaer. 

Major General Van Rensselaer to Brigadier General Alexander Smyth. 
Head-Gtuartcrs, Lewislon, 30th September, 1812. 

Sir,— 

On my return, this moment, from Niagara, I received 
your letter of yesterday, advising me of your arrival at 
Buffalo, and the encampment, there, of the United States 
troops, in consequence of the conclusions you have drawn 
that offensive operations against Upper Canada ought to be 
attempted between Fort Erie and Chippewa. Nothing could 
be more unpleasant to me than a difference of opinion as to 
\\\e place of commencing those operations in which our own 
characters, the fate of the army, and the deepest interests of 
our country are concerned. But, however willing I may be, 
as a citizen soldier, to surrender my opinion to a professional 
one, I can only make such surrender to an opinion deliber- 
ately formed upon a view of the whole ground. 

It would have been highly gratifying to me, could I have 
had a seasonable opportunity to avail myself of the opinions 
of the officers of the United States troops, as to the time, 
place, and competent force for the contemplated descent. 
But as the season for operations was far advanced, and as 
the counsel I wished was not at command, it has been the task 
of my own judgment, guided by the best attainable informa- 
tion to designate the places for our operations. This I had 
some time ago decided : and although, on account of m.y 
small force, I have been obliged to bestow much labour on 
measures calculated for defence, in case of an attack, still 
have I urged, as fast as possible, other local preparations, 
connected with that mode of descent on which I had deter- 
mined. My judgment may have deceived me, but I shall 
certainly stand acquitted of a hasty decision. For many 
years, I have had a general knowledge of the banks of Ni- 



APPENDIX. 69 

agara river, and of the adjacent country on the Canada shore, 
I have, now, attentively explored the American side with 
the view of military operations ; combining, at the same time, 
a great variety of circumstances and considerations intimate- 
ly connected, in my opinion, with our object. So various 
are the opinions, and such the influence of personal and lo- 
cal interests in this vicinity, that many circumstances are to 
be carefully balanced before any correct conclusions can be 
drawn. My decision has been made with due regard to all 
these things, and to the important consequences connected 
with it. All my past measures have been calculated for one 
point ; and I now only wait for a competent force ; as the 
season of the year and every consideration urges me to act 
with promptness, I cannot hastily listen to a change of po- 
sition, necessarily connected with a new system of measures, 
and the very great inconvenience of the troops. I will not 
say that no considerations shall induce me to change my 
plans of operations, but to this I cannot yield, without very 
weighty reasons ; conclusions drawn, at least, from an atten- 
tive examination of the banks of the Niagara river, and all 
other circumstances connected with a successful result of the 
campaign. 

I hope soon to have the pleasure of seeing you here ; and, 
perhaps, after conference and thorough examination of the 
river and country, your opinion and mine, as to the plans of 
operations, may coincide. I trust we are both open to con- 
viction, and we have but one object — the best interest of 
the service. 

I am, sir, with consideration and respect, &c. 
Brigadier Gen. Alexander Smyth, of the United States forces, Buffalo. 

Brigadier General Smyth, of the U. S. Forces, to Major General Van 
Rensselaer. 

Camp, near Buffalo, Oct. 2d, 1812. 
Sir,— 

I have had the honour to receive your letter of the 

30th Sept., dated at Lewiston. The detachments of Col 



70 



APPENDIX. 



Winder and Col. Parker have arrived. They are recruits 
without clothing and with little instruction. Neither of them 
have medicine chests. Col. Winder's detachment is already- 
encamped on an excellent piece of ground for exercise, 
where Col. Parker's will join it to-day. Col. JMilton's detach- 
ment will also arrive to day ; and within a week I expect the 
other detachments. I have taken quarters at the place, and 
propose to devote six hours daily to their instruction, in dis- 
cipline and evolutions. 

The delay of a part until the whole arrive, cannot, possi- 
bly, be injurious, and any order I may receive will be obey- 
ed with alacrity. 

There has been a mutiny in the 5th, and a general court 
martial has become necessary. Should you deem it proper 
to order one to be held at this camp, Col. Parker might pre- 
side, and the other members be detached by my Brigade 
Major. 

I have the honour to be very respectfully, &c. 

Major Gen, Van Rensselaer. 

Major General Van Rensselaer to Brigadier General Smyth. 

Head-Gluarters, Lewiston, 5th Oct., 1812. 
Sir,— 

Believing that an early consultation of general offi- 
cers, commandants of regiments, and corps on this frontier 
will promote the interest of the service, I have to request that 
you will be pleased to confer with Maj. Gen. Hall on the 
subject, and agree with him upon the earliest day possible, 
consistent with the business of the court martial, and other 
indispensable duties, when I can have the pleasure of seeing 
you at Fort Niagara for the purpose above proposed. 

Of the day agreed upon, you will please to give me early 
notice. 

I am, &c. 

P. S. I have written to Maj. Gen. Hall to the same pur- 
port. 

Brig. Gen. Smyth, of the U. S. forces. 



APPENDIX. 7 i 

Major General Van Rensselaer to Major General Hall. 
(confidential) 

Q- Head-Ciuarters, Lewiston, 5Lii Oct., 1812. 

oir — ' ' 

This letter was the same as above. 

Major General Van Rensselaer to Brigadier General Smyth, of the 
U. S. forces. 

Head.Q,uarters, Lewiston, 6th Oct., 1812. 
Sir, — 

Apprehending that my letter of yesterday, on the 
subject of the proposed conference at Niagara, may not have 
been sufficiently explicit, I deem it necessary to add, that 
my intention was, that Major General Hall, yourself, and 
the Commandants of the several regiments of the United 
States troops, should attend the conference. You will please 
to make the necessary communications to the gentlemen in- 
tended. 

I am, &;c. 
Brigadier General Smyth, of the U. S. foices. 

Major General Van Rensselaer to Major General Hall. 
Same date as above, and same in form and substance, 
except as to extending the communications. 

Buftalo, Oct. 10th, 1812. 
Major General Hall to Major General Van Rensselaer. 

(extract.) 
Sir,- ^ 

I saw General Smyth yesterday : he could not tell 
the day when he would attend at Niagara for the consul- 
tation, 

I am, &c. 

Major General Van Rensselaer to Brigadier General Smyth. 

Head-Q,uarter£?, Lewiston, 10th October, 1812. ' 
Sir,- 

In consequence of some intelligence recently receiv- 



.1^72 APPENDIX. 

ed, relative to the force of the enemy on the opposite shore, 
I shall this night attack the enemy's batteries on the heights 
of Queenstown. Should we succeed, I shall, to-morrow morn- 
ing, cross over and intrench. 

Immediately on the receipt of this you will please to give 
orders to all the United States troops under your command to 
strike their tents, and march, with every possible despatch, 

to this place. 

With respect and consideration, &c. 

Brigadier General Alex. Smyth, of the U. S. forces. 

Major General Van Rensselaer to Brigadier General Smyth. 

Head-auarters, Lewiston, 11th Oct., 1812. 

Sir,-- . 

The object of my order to you yesterday, to march 
your troops to this place, was to support the militia in an 
attack upon the enemy's batteries in Queenstown, warranted 
by information which I had received, too direct to be doubted, 
and too favourable to be passed by without an effort. But 
the expedition has failed; and the failure is owing to some 
circumstances vitally connected with the highest interest 
of the service, but the particulars are more proper for the 
subject of personal conference than for this mode of commu- 
nication ; I shall, therefore, reserve them until I shall have 
the pleasure of seeing you here. In the interim the United 
States troops under your command will remain at their en- 
campment, near Buffalo. 

I am, &c. 

Brigadier General Smyth, of the U. S. forces. 

Brigadier General Smyth to Major General Van Rensselaer. 
Camp, near Buffixlo, 12th Oct., 1812. 
Sir,— 

I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your 

letter at ten o'clock, P. M. 

The badness of the weather and roads harassed the: 



troops yesterday more than can well be conceived. To- 
moriovv I expect th;ir clothing, and they will wash; next 
day they might march, to the number of 1*2 JO effective men, 
but imperfectly d'sciplined. It is said the enemy are in 
considerable force opposite to Black Rock : and as Lieut. 
Cols. Scott and Christie have arrived with you, the time for 
your attack is favourable — and may you conquer ! is my 
prayer. 

I have the honour to be, with great respect, 
Your most obedient, 
(Signed) Alex. Simyth, Brig. General. 

A'ajor Gen. Van Rensselaer. 

Major General Van Rensselaer to Brigadier General Smyth. 

Head-Q,uaiters, Lewiston, 12th Oct., 1812. 
Sir,— 

I have this moment received your letter of yesterday. 
To-night I shall, again, attack the enemy's batteries on the 
heights of Queenstown; should circumstances render it ne- 
cessary to march your brigade, I will advise you to morrow. 
Lieut. Col. Christie has arrived with boats, stores, &c. 

I am &c. 
Brigadier General Smyth, of the U. S. Forces. 

EXTRACT. 
From Major General Van Rensschier to Major General Brock. 

Head-Cluarters, Lewiston, 17lh Sept., 1812. 
Sir,— 

In a communication which I had some time since the 
honour of receiving from Lieut Col. Myers, he assured me 
that it had been the constant' study of the general officer, 
commanding the British forces on this line, to discountenance, 
by all means in his power, the warfure of sentinels; yet, 
occurrences for some days past, would warrant the pre- 
sumption, that such orders no longer exist. If so be the 
fact, I wish to be ascertained of it. 

I have the honour to be, 

with consideration, &;c. 
7 

.# 



74 APPENDIX, 

EXTRACT. 
From Major General Brock to Major General Van Rensselaer. 
Head-Q,uarters, Fort George, Sept. 17th, 1812. 
Sir,— 

It has been with the utmost regret, that I have per- 
ceived, within these few days, a very heavy firing from both 
sides of the river. I am, however, given to understand, 
that on all occasions it has commenced on yours; and, from 
the circumstance of the flag which I did myself the honour 
to send over yesterday having been repeatedly fired upon, 
while in the act of crossing the river, 1 am inclined to give 
full credit to the correctness of the information. Without, 
however, recurring to the past, you may rely upon my re- 
peating my positive orders against the continuance of a 
practice which can only be injurious to individuals, without 
promoting the object which both our nations may have in 
view. 

I have the honour to remain, 

with respect, &c. 
Major General Van Rensselaer. 

Major General Van Rensselaer to Major General Brock. 

Head-Cluarters, Lewislon, 20ih Sept., 1812. 
Sir,— 

It was with extreme regret and concern that I yester- 
day learned through Lieut Col. Myers, that in a repetition 
of the practice of firing between senlinels, which I have so 
peremptorily prohibited, one shot has proved fatal to a man 
at the Lime Kilns on the Canada shore. Immediately, on 
receiving information of this unfortunate event, I caused 
strict inquiry to be made, to the end, that the ofl^ender, if 
discovered, might be punished according to his demerit. 
But the result of this inquiry has not furnished me with the 
least evidence against any man. I cannot ascertain that 
a single gun has been fired, at, or near the place from 
■whence the shot was supposed to have been thrown. 



APPENDIX. 75 

That these firings have been repeatedly commenced on 
both sides, is not to be questioned : the fact is established, 
by the testimony of officers whose rank and character, in 
both armies, utterly precludes all doubt. It is a circum- 
stance, which, in this explanation, ought not to be omitted, 
that there may be, on both sides the river, — there certainly 
is reason to believe there are on this side — persons not un- 
der immediate command in either army, who, occasionally, 
approach the river, discharge their pieces, at the sentries, 
and then escape unobserved in their retreats, while the fire, 
thus begun, is returned upon an unoffending sentinel. I 
have caused patrols to be sent out to take such persons, but 
without success. 

I can only repeat, sir, that I deeply regret the unfortunate 
occurrence which has happened ; that my orders against the 
practice which has occasioned it have been most peremptory : 
my efforts to enforce them are unremitting, and every at- 
tempt to convict any one of disobedience, as yet, is unavailing. 
With consideration and high respect, 

I have the honour, &c. 

Major General Brock, Fort George. 

From Major General Isaac Brock to Major General Van Rensselaer. 
Head-auarters, Fort George, 23d Sept., 1812. 

Sir,— 

I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of 
your letter of the twentieth instant. I never doubted for a 
moment that the firing from your side of the river, upon in- 
dividuals, was contrary to your intentions, and in violation of 
your orders, and I beg leave to repeat, that every eflTort 
shall be made on my part to prevent a recurrence of such 
acts of insubordination, on this side. 

I have the honour to be, 

with very great respect, &c. 
Major General Van Rensselaer, 



j^6' APPENIHLX. 

Major General Van Rensselaer to Major General "Brock, 

Head-Cluarters, Lewiston, 13th Oct,, 1812. 
Sir,— 

Humanity induces me to request your permission to 
send to Queenstown some surgeons to attend the officers and 
men who have had the misfortune to be wounded this day, 
and are prisoners at Queenstown. 

Agreeably to the proposition which I had this afternoon 
the honour to receive, as coming from you, I have agreed to 
a cessation of firing for three days. 

I have the honour, &c. 
Major General Isaac Brock. 

Major General Sheaffe to Major General Van Rensselaer. 

Fort George, ISth OcL, 1812. 

Sir,~ 

I lose not a moment in acknowledging the receipt of 
your letter of this date, and am pi ased to learn, at the same 
time, that the officer commanding at Queenstown, having 
opened it, had acceded to your proposal of sending surgeons 
to aid the wounded prisoners, without incurring the delay 
which would have been occasioned by a reference to me ; 
but, as our means of affording assistance to them, as well as 
to our own wounded, may be inadequate, I beg leave to pro- 
pose that the wounded prisoners, whose cases may admit of 
removal, should be sent over to you, on condition of not serv- 
ing again, until regularly exchanged. 

Though the proposition which I had the honour of making 
to you to-day, did not go to the extent which, by some mis- 
take, you were led to suppose, yet I readily concur with 
you in agreeing to a cessation of firing for three days, and 1 
transmit orders to that effect to the officers commanding at 
the several posts on this line. 

I have the honour, &c. 
Major General Van Rensselaer, commanding Lewiston, 



APPENDIX. 77 

Major General Sheaffe to Major General Van Rensselaer. 

Fort George, 16th Oct., 1812, 
Sir,— 

I have heard with great regret, that Col. Van 
Rensselaer is badly wounded. If there be any thing at my 
command, that your side of the river cannot furnish, which 
would be either useful or agreeable to him, 1 beg that you 
will be so good as to have me apprised of it. 

I have the honour to be, sir, with much esteem, 
Your very devoted servant, 

R. H. Sheaffe. 

Major General Sheaffe to Major General Van Rensselaer. 

Fort George, 16th Oct., 1812. 
Sir,— 

As the period assigned to the cessation of hoslilities 
is drawing to a termination ; and the intended exchange of 
prisoners and sending over the wounded and the militia will 
require much more time than remains of it ; and as, more- 
over, part of this day is to be devoted to paying the last 
offices of humanity to the remains of my departed friend and 
General, I feel it to be my duty to propose a prolongation of 
the armistice to such a period as may be necessary for the 
complete execution of those humane purposes. Lists are 
prepared for all the prisoners here, distinguishing those of 
the line from militia ; and Brigade Major Evans, who has 
been appointed by me to arrange the business with Capt. 
Dox, will be ready to proceed in it, as soon as that officer 
comes over. 

I have the honour, &c. 
Major General Van Rensselaer. 

Major General Van Rensselaer to Major General Sheaffe. 

Head-Cluarters, Lewiston, Oct. 16th, 1812. 
Sir,- - 

I have this moment had the honour to receive your 

7* 



'*^ AiPPEKtiJX. 

two letters of the present date. I most cbeerfully agree to 
extend the cessation of hostilities for a time amply sufficient 
to discharge all duties of humanity to the brave who are 
wounded, or prisoners; and the just tribute of respect to the 
gallant dead. For these purposes I agree to the further 
cessation of hostilities, until 4 o'clock of the afternoon of the 
19th instant. 

I shall order a salute for the funeral of General Brock to 
be fired here, and at Fort Niagara, this afternoon. 

You will please to accept, sir, the grateful acknowledg- 
ments of Col. Van Rensselaer and myself for your kind 
offer of any thing in your power which might contribute to 
to his comfort. 1 do not know that he is at present destitute 
of any thing essential. 

As this, sir, is probably the last communication I shall 
have the honour to make to you from this station, 1 avail 
myself of the opportunity to tender you the assurance of my 
great esteem and consideration. 

Major General Shea fife to Major General Van Rensselaer. 

Fort George, 16lh Oct., 1812. 

Sir,— 

I feel too strongly the generous tribute which you 
propose to pay to my departed friend and chief, to be able 
to express the sense 1 entertain of it. Noble-minded as he 
was, so would he have done himself. 

1 have directed the prolongation of the armistice until 
four o'clock in the afternoon of the 19th instant, to be com- 
municated along this line. 

I feel a perfect confidence, sir, that nothing will be omitted 
on your part to ensure a strict execution of the agreement 
respecting the militia officers and men, as well as any others 
not yet exchanged, who are released from their captivity. 

Allow me, sir, to express a hope that the time is not far 
distant when the restoration of peace and amity between our 



APPENDIX. 79 

respective countries, may afford me an opportunity of assur- 
ing you, personally, of the respect and esteem with which 
1 have the honour to be, sir, 

Your most obedient and devoted servant, 
R. H. Sheaffe, Maj. General, &c. 
Maj. General Van Rensselaer. 

Hcad-Uuarters, Fort Washington, May 26th, 1797. 
Sir,~ 

You are, this day, to cross the Ohio river, with your 

troop, and to commence your march for Knoxville, in the 

state of Tennessee, without one moment's unnecessary delay. 

You will proceed by easy marches, on the most convenient 
road for Fort Blount, on the Cumberland river. Should you 
discover on your approach to, or arrival at this place, that 
the Indians are hostilely disposed, you are to fallback, either 
to Nashville, or take some intermediate secure position, 
where your cavalry can be well subsisted, and wait the ar- 
rival of Lieut. Col. Commandant Butler, whose orders you 
are to receive. 

But should you find the Indians in a state of tranquillity, 
you will proceed on to Knoxville, with due military precau- 
tion and on your arrival there, will report to the senior offi- 
cer on that station, and require quarters and subsistence for 
your men and horses, where you are to wait the arrival of 
Col. Butler, unless otherwise disposed of under the authority 
of the president. 

Wishing you an agreeable tour, I remain with much 
friendship, your obedient servant, 

J A. Wilkinson, B. G., &c. 

Captain Van Rensselaer. 

New- York, August 8th, 1800. 
Dear sir, — 

Major Rensselaer, who was eldest captain of dra- 
goons before the late augmentation of the army, was, under 
•that augmentation promoted to a major. He has some time 



80 APPENDIX. 

since devoted himself to military affairs, as a professor for 
life, and is unwilling to quit. For my part I have conceived 
there was a discretion in the president on this subject, which 
may be exercised in favour of the major. A field officer for 
the cavalry appears to me in every view proper. For the 
character of Major Van Rensselaer, as an officer, 1 refer 
you to Gen. Wilkinson, with whom he served. The inquiry 
I know will result greatly in his favour, and as a man, there 
is none more worthy : he is a kinsman of Mrs. Hamilton. 
With esteem and regard, 

A. Hamilton, Secretary of War. 

Extract of a letter from General Wilkinson to the Secretary of War. 
City of Washington, August 9th, 1800. 
General Hamilton warmly recommends the retention 
of Major Van Rensselaer in service ; but I fear the ground 
he takes is not tenable, though the circumstance is undoubt- 
edly essential to the service, and is devoutly to be desired, as 
the major is a gem worthy preservation. A squadron of 
cavalry without a leader, is an unseemly thing; and not un- 
like a body without a head, from which much good cannot be 
expected. 

Mr. Van Rensselaer's pretensions to patronage are pecu- 
liarly strong. On the 20th August, 1794, he received a shot 
through his lungs, at the head of the troop. At the reduc- 
tion of the then army, he continued in service, and on the 
levy of the late contingent force he was taken from his troop 
and promoted to a majority. The disbanding this force has, 
I fear, thrown him out of service, unless you may judge 
proper to retain him on the ground of expediency, until the 
president or legislature may be consulted. Certain it is, 
he is essential to the formation and discipline of the squad- 
ron, which, without a chief, presents an original spectacle. 

Albany, 19th Nov., 1800. 
Sir,— 

Whether a major for the cavalry of United States 



APPENDIX. 



81 



should be retained in service, is a question on which it would 
not be proper for me to make any remarks. 

But if it should be deemed expedient, that such an officer 
should be retained, I take the liberty of informing you, that, 
from what I have heard and know of Major Solomon Van 
Rensselaer, who wishes to devote himself to the military pro- 
fession, I really think he merits the attention of government. 

His qualifications and conduct as an officer have probably 
been made known to you by Gen. Wilkinson and others. 
His character here as a citizen and a gentleman, attracts 
general esteem : and for my own part, I consider him as one 
of the most valuable and promising young men that I know. 
1 have the honour to be, with great respect, 
Sir, \ our most obedient servant, 

John Jay. 

The Honourable Samuel Dexter, Esq., Secretary at War. 



APPENDIX, No. III. 



State of New- York, 

GENERAL ORDERS. 
Head auarters, Albany, July 13th, 1812. 

Major General Stephen Van Rensselaer having been re- 
quested to repair to the command of the militia heretofore 
ordered into the service, and to be hereafter ordered into the 
service of the United States, for the defence of the northern 
and western frontiers of this state, between St. Regis and 
Pennsylvania, enters upon his command this day. 

All the militia comprehended in the brigades of detached 
militia organized into the first detached division, by general 
orders of the eighteenth day of June last, together with the 
corps commanded by Lieut. Cols. Swift, Flemming, and Bel- 
linger, are hereby declared to be subject to the division orders 
of Major General Van Rensselaer, without waiting for 
further general orders upon that subject; and all officers 
commanding the militia, from which the first detached divis- 
ion was taken are promptly to obey and respect such division 
orders accordingly. 

By order of the commander in chief) 

Wm. S. Wilkin, Aid-de-camp, p. t. 

Head-Gluaners, Niagara, Aug. 13;h, 1S12. 
Major General Van Rensselaer having been appointed to 
the command of the troops on the northern and western 
frontiers of this State, announces his arrival. Having as- 
sumed this command, the general assures the officers and 
soldiers, that, as on their part he will require prompt obe- 
dience to orders, and strict discipline, so from him they may 



APPENDIX. 83 

expect his unremitting exertions to render their situations at 
all times as eligible as possible; and when their exertions 
shall be called for against the enemy, he trusts with confi- 
dence that they will be such as will redound to the honour 
of the troops, and the service of the country. 

The troops at Lewiston will be reviewed and inspected at 
10 o'clock to-morrow ; for that purpose, blank returns will 
be furnished. 

An accurate inspection return will be made out by the 
commanding officers of companies, who are to account for 
their men, arms, and accoutrements : in their returns, they 
will note the deficiencies of arms or accoutrements, to the 
end thai measures may be adopted to obtain supplies from 
the proper departments. 

By order of Major General Van Rensselaer, 

Sol. Van Rensselaer, Aid-de camp. 

Head (Quarters, Lewiston, 16ih Aug., 1812. 
GENEKAL ORDERS. 

Major General Hall will please to order the troops in the 
vicinity of Niagara Falls, to repair to Lewiston as soon as 
as may be convenient, reserving a necessary guard at that 
place until it shall be relieved by a detachment from Lieut. 
Col. Swift's regiment. The court-martial whereof Briga- 
dier General Wads worth is President, will adjourn to head- 
quarters, and there finish the business before them. 

The troops between Lewiston and Fort Niagara will, with 
their baggage, march to-morrow morning at 10 o'clock, to 
Lewiston, leaving guards at the places heretofore occupied 
for watching the movements of the enemy. The quarter- 
master will furnish the necessary transportation. 

Lieut. Col. Swift will furnish small guards of observation, 
from Buffalo to the Falls of Niagara inclusive. They are 
to communicate to the General in Chiefs by runners, any 
movements of the enemy, with all possible despatch. 
By order of Major General Van Rensselaer, 

Sol. Van Rensselaer, Aid-de-camp. 



84 APPENDIX. 

Head-Gluarters, Lewiston, 18th Aug. 1812. 
GENERAL ORDERS. 

Major General Dearborn having communicated, that, 
agreeably to an arrangement made between him and the 
Governor General of Canada, through his Adjutant General, 
all hostilities between the troops on either side should be 
suspended until further orders. Major General Van Rens- 
selaer directs the officers and soldiers under his command, 
strictly to conform to this arrangement; and if any of the 
troops have the hardihood to fire on the enemy, they will be 
punished accordingly. 

Lieut. Col. Swift will order under arrest Capt. Dogherty 
of his regiment, for absenting himself from his company; 
and will investigate the cause of the firing of a field piece at 
Black Rock, on the opposite shore ; and by whom, and re- 
port the facts to the Major General without delay. 
By order of Mujor General Van Rensselaer, 

Sol. Van Rensselaer, Aid-de-camp. 

Head-Gluarters, Lewiston, 19th Aug,. 1812. 
GENERAL ORDERS. 

Countersign, parole. 

Officer of the day to-morrow, Lt. Col. Dobbins. 
Adjutant, G. L. Dox. 

The Major General directs that the following regulations 
shall be obs(;rved by the troops under his command ; — 

The reveille will be beat at day-break when every 
officer and soldier will appear on parade, and the compa- 
nies be exercised by their respective commanding officers for 
one hour, and the like time at 4 o'clock in the afternoon; 
and by battalions, on Tuesdays and Fridays of each week, 
at the company and battalion parades. The ficild officers 
will attend and superintend the " manoeuvres of their corps. 
The troop will beat at 9 o'clock, A. M., and the retreat at 



6 v)'clock, p. M., when the line will be formed for roll-call ; 
the music will take their post on the right of the regiments, 
and not on t!ie right of companies. On those occasions, the 
dress of the officers and soldiers is to be clean, and their 
arms and accoutrements bright and in perfect order. The 
Major General flatters himself that the troops will vie with 
each other in the cleanliness of their dress, as well as their 
soldier-like and orderly conduct, when on, or off duty. The 
corps which shall distinguish itself for orderly conduct and 
discipline, shall be reported by the Major General to the 
Commander in Chief; and every refractory officer or sol- 
dier s!iall be dealt with as the law and the usages of armies 
point out : for as they are called upon by their country to 
defend it, and paid for their services, it is expected that 
•' every man will do his duty^ for on that the lives of the 
troops, the honour and success of the enterprises in which, 
in all probability, they will shortly be engaged, will depend. 

The tattoo will be beat at 9 o'clock, when the men will 
retire to their tents, and the sentinels begin to challenge. 

Two captains, and two subaltern guards will be mounted 
daily ; one captain's guard will take post on the front, and 
one in the rear of the camp ; and the subalterns on each 
flank. The guards will be sufficiently strong to form a 
chain of sentinels round the camp ; and they will be aug- 
mented, or diminished as occasion may require. The guards 
will assemble on the grand parade, at half past 9 o'clock, 
when they will be formed by the major of brigade and 
marched off precisely at 10 o'clock. A portion of the mu- 
sic of the line will attend and do duty until the guards are 
marched oflf to their respective pickets. The adjutants 
will march the men detached from the respective regiments, 
for this service, to the grand parade, and will be responsible 
for the soldier like appearance of the men, arms, and accou- 
trements. Each man of the guard will be furr.ished with 
twenty-four rounds of fixed cartridges : their pieces will be 

8 



86 APPENDIX. 

loaded after sunset ; and when the guards are relieved, they 
will return to the grand parade, from whence they will be 
marched in a body, by the officer ofthe day, to some conve- 
nient spot, where their pieces will be discharged at a target, 
ofthe size of a dollar, at one hundred yards distance. And 
on all other occasions firing is strictly prohibited, unless it be 
by the sentinels, at night, to give the alarm. 

The officer ofthe day will be taken from the regimental 
field officers ; whose duty it shall be, to visit the guards 
and sentinels three times in the course ofthe day and three 
times at night; to regulate the guards, to see that they are 
vigilant and in soldier-like order; for on their alertness the 
lives ofthe men and the safety ofthe army depend. 

The officers are strictly enjoined to attend to the cleanli- 
ness of their men; they must frequently visit their tents, and 
examine the situation of them. On the faithful performance 
of this duty depend the lives and health ofthe troops. 

The commanding officers of regiments and corps will 
cause two vaults, or sinks, to be dug in the rear of each com- 
pany, at least one hundred yards in the rear of the rear 
tents, in a line parallel to the tents : and if any soldier shall 
be found to leave excrement in any other place within the 
line of sentinels, he will be punished. 

The ground in front and rear ofthe tent is to be levelled 
and cleared by the respective companies. The Brigade Ma- 
jor will direct the Adjutants to cause the music, when not on 
duty, to practise the different calls and marches. 

The Court Martial, whereof Brigadier General Wads- 
worth was appointed President, will meet to-morrow morn- 
ing at ten o'clock, for the trial of such prisoners as may be 
brought before them. General Wadsworth will please to 
make the necessary arrangements, and meet in such place 
as he may think convenient. 

By order of Major General Van Rensselaer, 

Sol. Van Rensselaee, Aid-de-Camp. 



APPENDIX. 87 

Head duarters, Lewiston, August 22d, 1812. 
GENERAL ORDERS. 

Parole. 

Countersign, 

Officer of the day to-morrow, 
Adjutant, 

It is painful to the Major General to find that some part 
of the troops are so regardless of their duty as to disobey 
the orders issued for preventing scattering firing in and about 
the camp. This dangerous and disgraceful practice is once 
more, and for the last time, prohibited. If any man of the 
line (the guards and sentinels excepted) shall, after this, 
discharge his fire-arms without orders, he will be instantly 
confined ; and ihe field and company officers are strictly 
enjoined to enforce this order. 

The Major General regrets that he is compelled to re- 
mind the officers under his command of the necessity of be- 
ing in camp at night : for if they will be regardless of their 
duty, what can be expected of their men by such an exam- 
ple? They are, in future, directed to be at night in their 
tents, unless otherwise ordered; and in perfect readiness, at 
any moment, to commence or repel an attack, to which 
troops in the face of an enemy are at all times liable. 

The officers and troops meet with the perfect approba- 
tion of the Major General, for their alertness in parading at 
reveille; with the exception of one or two companies, which 
were not this morning on parade, and the captain of one 
company not in camp. But let him beware for the future ; 
if caution and remonstrance will avail nothing, more decisive 
measures shall. 

To-morrow being the Sabbath, the guards will not dis- 
charge their pieces until Monday, after roll-call ; and this 
regulation will be observed until further orders. 

By order of Major General Van Rensselaer, 

Sol. Van Rensselaer, Aid-de-Camp, 



tSa APPENDIX. 

Head duarters, Lewiston, August 28th, 1812. 
GENERAL ORDERS. 

The army under the command of Brigadier General 
Hull has surrendered at Detroit. This is a national disaster; 
but it is the duty o^ soldiers to turn even disasters to profit. 
To this end the General calls upon the troops under his com- 
mand to make every effort in perfecting that discipline on 
which they must rely for their own safety and for their 
country's honour, in that crisis which may be fust approach- 
ing. The General is persuaded that Americans know the 
inestimable rights which they enjoy ; and he confidently 
trusts, that their bravery to defend is in proportion to the 
knowledge they possess of those rights. 

The troops will be exercised at reveille, and from four 
o'clock in the afternoon, two hours instead of one, as men- 
tioned in general orders of the 19th instant. 

Capt. Dogherty and Lieut. Hewit, of Lieut. Col. Swift's 
regiment, are released from their arrests, and will return to 
their duty. This renewed instance of clemency of the Ma- 
jor General, it is hoped, will be properly appreciated by 
them : it is not his wish to punish, but orders must and shall 
be obeyed. 

The unhealthy state of the troops under the command of 
Lieut. Col. Swift, at Black Rock, renders particular atten- 
tion to them, and to the causes of their maladies, necessary. 
For this purpose Doctor Brown will associate with him Doc- 
tor Daniel Chipman ; and they will proceed, without delay, 
to that place, and make full inquiry into the situation of the 
sick, the causes which have produced the diseases, and the 
manner in which they have been treated ; of all which they 
will make report, in writing, to the Major General ; suggest- 
ing the best mode, in their opinion, to restore those who are 
fiick, and preserve the health of the well. 

These, and all other orders, arc to be read by the Adju- 
tants to the troops under the command of the Major General 



APPENDIX. 89 

The Commanding Officers of regiments and corps will give 
orders accordingly. 

By order of Major General Van Rensselaer, 

Sol. Van Rensselaer, Aid-de-Camp. 

Head Gluarters, Lewiston, 29th Aug., 1812. 
GENERAL ORDERS. 

The Major General is gratified with the attention which 
is paid by the officers to the health of the men. Striking 
the tents, as has been this morning done, will in a great mea- 
sure prevent disease among the troops : and the General re- 
commends that it be done as often as occasion may require, 
and that cleanliness be observed, in every particular, by the 
individuals of the army ; it is absolutely necessary to the 
preservation of health. It is particularly enjoined on those 
who have charge of the few sick, in this camp and the hos- 
pital, to see that they are well supplied with every thing 
necessary for their accommodation, and that expert and faith- 
ful nurses are provided to attend them. 

On this occasion the General cannot refrain from express- 
ing his satisfaction at the attention of the officers in general 
to their duty, and the orderly conduct of the soldiers in obey- 
ing orders: such cheerful and soldier-like behaviour is to 
him a pleasing presage of what he has to expect from them 
in the hour " which will try men's souls." 

To the Commanding Officer of the 7th brigade, and to 
the Colonels of the Ibth and 20th regiments, the General 
tenders his acknowledgments, for their strict attention to the 
discipline of the troops and the preservation of their health. 
By order of Major General Van Rensselaer, 

CoL. Van Rensselaer, Aid-de-Camp. 

Head duarters, Lewiston, 4th Sept., 1812. 
GENERAL ORDERS. 

The Major General announces to the troops, that, agree- 
8 * 



90 APPENDIX. 

able to an order received from Major General Dearborn, the 
armistice entered into between him and the Governor Gene- 
ral of Upper and Lower Canada will be terminated at twelve 
o'clock, at noon, on the eighth day of September instant. 

The troops under his command will, however, understand, 
explicitly, that they are not to act offensively without previ- 
ous orders from him ; but to be vigilant in their duty, and 
ready to execute any command they may receive when a 
proper occasion presents itself 

The troops will strike their tents to-morrow morning at 
reveille : the tents, tent-poles, and baggage, will be packed 
up, ready to move, in one hour from that time. The Quarter 
Master will measure the space necessary for a double row 
of tents for each company, and furnish the necessary trans- 
portation. 

A fatigue party, of a sergeant, corporal, and twelve men, 
will attend at the same time at head quarters. 

By order of the Major General Van Rensselaer, 

Sol. Van Rensselaer, Aid-de-Camp. 

Head-Q.uarters, Lewiston, 9th Sept., 1812. 
GENERAL ORDERS. 

Lieut. Col. Bloom will march immediately to the neigh- 
bourhood of Niagara Falls and relieve the guards of the de- 
tachment of United States' troops, under the command of 
Major Mullany, by his regiment. The Commanding Officer 
of this detachment, after being relieved by Lieut. Col. Bloom, 
will march with the troops under his command, without de- 
lay, and join Lieut. Col. Fenwick, and is to be subject to his 

orders. 

By order of Major General Van Rensselaer, 

Sol. Van Rensselaer, Aid-de-Camp» 

Head Cluarters, Lewiston, 6th Sept., 1812. 
GENERAL ORDERS. 

Lieut. Col. George Flemming, Commanding Fort Oswego» 



APPENDIX. 91 

having assigned Walter Cotton as Surgeon of Major Charles 
Moseley's battalion of riflemen, the Major General confirms 
that assignment, and orders that Doctor Cotton do duty ac- 
cordingly, in that corps, until further orders. 

Major General Hall will please to take command of 
Lieut. Col. Swift's regiment, and the detachment of troops 
ordered out by Brigadier Gen. Hopkins, and make such dis- 
position of this force, as the security of the frontiers may re- 
quire ; and will make weekly reports to Major General Van 
Rensselaer. Major General Hall will please to bear in 
mind, that all permits, for any persons to pass into Canada, 
are to be obtained only from Major General Van Rensse- 
laer. 

Lieut. Col. Bloom will make morning reports of the regi- 
ment under his command, to Major General Van Rensselaer, 
and will cause Mr. Rolph, the prisoner, to be delivered to 
Major General Hall at Black Rock. 

By order of Major General Van Rensselaer, 

Sol. Van Rensselaer, Aid-de-camp. 

Head-Gluarters, Lewiston, September 15th, 1812. 
GENERAL ORDERS. 

The Quarter Master General and the Contractor will fur- 
nish, on the order of Doctor Brown, hospital surgeon, the 
necessary supplies for the sick in camp, and the hospital : 
To Doctor Brown, the surgeon of regiments, and corps will 
apply, for supplies necessary for the accommodation of the 
sick under their care ; and they are strictly enjoined to at- 
tend faithfully to the sick of the Regiments and corps, to 
which they are assigned, whether the sick are in the camp, 
or hospital. 

The Quarter Master General will furnish a sufficient 
quantity of straw, for the accommodation of the troops, in 
the camp and barracks : he will also furnish forage for the 
dragoons, and other public horses, and cause the horses of 



93 APPENDIX. 

Captain Camp's troop of volunteer cavalry to be appraised 
as the law directs, without delay. 

Lieut. Col. Fenwick, the Quarter Master General, and the 
Commissary of military stores on this frontier will, without 
delay, make returns to Major General Van Rensselaer, of 
all the public property of every description under their 
charge. 

By order of Major General Van Rensselaer, 
Sol. Van Rensselaer, Aid-de-camp. 

Head-Cluarters, Lewiston, September 19th, 1812. 
GENERAL ORDERS. 

The Major General calls the attention of the officers to 
the 4 1 St, 42d, 43d, 44th, 45th, 46th, and 53d articles of war, 
and directs that they shall be read to the troops ; if any offi- 
cer or soldier, has the hardihood to violate either of them, 
he shall be treated as those articles direct. The shameful 
inattention to duty, in the face of a powerful enemy, by 
many of the officers and soldiers will render this resort ne- 
cessary, however unpleasant it may be to the Major General. 

In violation of a general order of the 19th August, several 
of the field officers did not attend parade duty yesterday : it 
is hoped that such conduct in them will not again occur; for 
if it should, the Major General will be compelled to resort to 
measures which will be very unpleasant to himself and 
them. 

The guards will be augmented this night, and if any offi- 
cer or soldier discloses the watch-word, he will be dealt with 
as the 53d article of the rules and articles of war directs. 

The officer of the day will direct every officer and sol- 
dier to be taken up after the beating of the retreat, whether 
he has the countersign or not, if found out of camp without 
permission in writing from the Major General. 

Lieut, Col. Fenwick will order a general court martial for 
the trial of such prisoners of the United States troops, as may 



APPENDIX. 93 

be brought before the court ; and report the proceedings, 
without delay, to the Major General. The following mem- 
bers will compose the court martial. 

By order of Major Gen. Van Rensselaer, 
Sol. Van Rensselaer, Aid-de-camp. 

Head-Gluarters, Lewiston, September 27th, 1812. 
GENERAL ORDERS. 

Complaint having been made by the troops, as to the 
quality of the provisions issued by the Commissary, 
Major John Beach of the town of Lewiston, a disinterested 
person, is appointed on the part of Major General Van 
Rensselaer, and he, together with the person to be appointed ^ 
on the part of the commissary, will, without delay, inspect ■ 
the quahty of the provisions, against which complaint has 
been made, and report their opinion, thereupon to the Major 
General. 

By order of Major General Van Rensselaer, 

Sol. Van Rensselaer, Aid-de-camp. 

Head-Q.uarters, Lewiston, 25th September, 1812. 
GENERAL ORDERS. 

The detachment of Lieut. Col. Hopkins' regiment will be 
stationed at Tonawanta, and guard the passes on the river ; 
and will relieve the guards of Lieut. Col. Swift's regiment, 
now there. All the supernumerary officers of Lieut. Col. 
Hopkins' regiment will be disbanded, and such only kept in 
service as are absolutely necessary to officer this, detach- 
ment agreeable to law. 

Generall Hall will give orders accordingly. Captain 
Ellicott's company of artillery will be stationed at the battery 
opposite Fort Erie, to which place one eighteen- pounder is 
ordered. 

Returns of the state of the troops, their arms, and accou- 
trements, will be made to the Major General once a week, 



94 APPENDIX. 

by General Hall ; and "the commanding officer of the Uni- 
ted States' troops at Fort Niagara ; and they are directed 
to have every thing in readiness for action at a moment's 
warning. 

By order of Major General Van Rensselaer, 

Sol. Van. Rensselaer, Aid-de-camp. 

Head-Gluarters, Lewiston, September 27th, 1812. 
GENERAL ORDERS. 

A guard of one hundred men, under the command of a 
Major, with their tents and baggage, will be detached this 
day, from Lieut. Col. Bloom's regiment, to protect the boats 
in Gill Creek. Lieut. Col. Bloom will give orders accord- 
p*ing!y, and will see that this detachment is encamped at that 
place, before sunset this evening. 

By order of Major General Van Rensselaer, 

Sol. Van Rensselaer, Aid-de-camp. 

Head-duarters, Lewiston, 30 ih Sept., 1812. 
general orders. 

The order whereof a copy is annexed, from the Com- 
mander in Chief of the United States' army, was received 
yesterday. All those interested are to govern themselves 
accordingly. 

The Quarter Master General will purchase twenty horses, 

and yoke of oxen, for the ordnance department, with 

yokes, chains, &c. complete, and furnish the necessary 
forage for the horses and oxen. The Quarter Master Ge- 
neral will make a return of the number of public boats in 
his possession, and what number of private boats he can 
procure for the transportation of troops, cannon, horses, and 
stores. 

The Major General regrets that he is again compelled to 
remind the Quarter Master General of the want of forage 



APPENDIX. 



for the light artillery and dragoon horses, and directs that 
it shall be furnished without delay ; and, in future, regularly. 
Those light infantry companies wiiich have already, or 
may hereafter arrive, excepting Capt. Dox's company, will 
take possession of the first cantonment below Lewiston, and 
will be subject to the orders of Major Thomas Lee, who is 
directed to take charge of them until further orders. The 
rifle company now there, will take post at the old ferry 
above Lewiston. Major Mosely of the rifle corps will take 
command of the rifle companies which are now in camp, or 
may hereafter arrive, until further orders. 

By order of Major General Van Rensselaer, 

Sol. Van Rensselaer, Aid-de-camp. 



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